Breakfast: Vanilla-Almond Green Smoothie

Recipe by Hannah Bronfman Adding a little vanilla and cinnamon will make you forget about the fact that you're drinking your greens.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cinnamon, Spinach, Chia Seeds

Health benefits of Vanilla-Almond Green Smoothie

Cinnamon is one of the best ingredients that someone with insulin sensitivity can eat. Half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day has been shown to be very effective at normalizing blood sugar levels. Cinnamon contains hydroxychalcone, which is thought to enhance the effects of insulin. It has also been suggested that Cinnamon prevents post-meal blood sugar spikes by slowing the gastric emptying rate - meaning that food digests slowly. (Reference: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11506060). Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being. Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. The high fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports digestive health. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve heart health, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including chia seeds in your diet can help provide essential nutrients and support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

1/2 banana
1 handful baby spinach
1/4 c. almond milk
Splash of vanilla extract
Pinch of cinnamon
1 c. ice
Buckwheat, for topping
Chia seeds, for topping

Instructions

In a blender, combine ingredients and blend until smooth. Top with buckwheat and chia.