Plum Good Smoothie
Dried plums are prunes, but don't let that fact deter you from eating them. They're sweet, chewy, and satisfying. Following are just a few reasons why dried plums are good for you:Great source of fiber - insoluble fiber for regularity and soluble fiber that helps to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.Prevents and relieves constipation.High in vitamin A and beta-carotene (a natural antioxidant).Produce a sense of fullness in the stomach, which can curb your appetite.Good source of iron and potassium.Rich in magnesium, which aids in promoting relaxation (nerves, muscles, and blood vessels), relieving muscle soreness, reducing symptoms of asthma, and even migraine headaches.Although dried plums are a wonderful snack by themselves, they can also be used in a variety of dishes, such as in this smoothie recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 apple, unpeeled, chopped
- 1 frozen banana, peeled, sliced
- 1/4 cup dried plums (about 6)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender. Process about 1 minute or until completely smooth.
- Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 1 cup or 8 ounces)
Video
Notes
- To prepare banana ahead of time, remove peel and place in a plastic ziptop bag until frozen.
- Add chopped nuts to boost the protein content.
- Make it a green smoothie by adding 1 cup spinach or kale. You can also mix in 1 tablespooon of spirulina.
I would like to try the smoothies, but they all have banana in them. I don’t like bananas. Is there a smoothie without bananas.
Thank you!
Hi, Karen! You can always substitute another fruit for banana (mango, peaches, etc.).
I’ve never used flaxseed or flaxseed meal before. What’s the benefit/purpose? Is it ok to leave it out of recipes? Thanks!
Flaxseeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as phytochemicals called lignans. But they’re difficult to digest, so I like to use flaxseed meal in my recipes (flaxseeds that have been ground into a fine powder). Flaxseed meal doesn’t have a taste, but it boots the nutritional content of recipes when it’s included. And, yes, it’s always optional!
Can I use prunes to assist in the constipation process???
Absolutely. Can be quite effective. Also, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. 🙂