Healthy Smoothie Recipes for All-Day Energy

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, maintaining high energy levels throughout the day can be a challenge. 

Some people gulp down so-called energy drinks that have horrible tastes and come in weird, day-glo colours, but there is a better, safer and more natural way to work toward maintaining high energy levels throughout the day. Home made smoothies!

Smoothies are a fantastic way to ensure you get a nutrient-packed start, a midday boost, or a post-workout recovery. Here are some delicious and healthy smoothie recipes to keep you energised all day long.

1. Green Power Smoothie

This smoothie is a great way to start your day. It's packed with greens that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana

1 handful of spinach

1 handful of kale

250ml almond milk

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 teaspoon honey

Instructions:

Add the almond milk to the blender.

Add the spinach, kale, and banana.

Sprinkle in the chia seeds and add honey.

Blend until smooth and enjoy immediately.

2. Berry Boost Smoothie

This antioxidant-rich smoothie is perfect for a mid-morning snack or a pre-workout drink.

Ingredients:

100g mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1 small apple, cored and chopped

200ml coconut water

1 tablespoon flaxseeds

1 teaspoon maple syrup

Instructions:

Pour the coconut water into the blender.

Add the berries and the chopped apple.

Add the flaxseeds and maple syrup.

Blend until smooth and serve chilled.

3. Tropical Energy Smoothie

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this refreshing and energising smoothie.

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped

250ml coconut milk

1 tablespoon hemp seeds

Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

Add the coconut milk to the blender.

Add the pineapple chunks and mango.

Sprinkle in the hemp seeds and add the lime juice.

Blend until smooth and enjoy immediately.

4. Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Smoothie

Ideal for post-workout recovery, this smoothie is rich in protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

1 banana

2 tablespoons natural peanut butter

200ml oat milk

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1 teaspoon cocoa powder

Instructions:

Add the oat milk to the blender.

Add the banana and peanut butter.

Add the protein powder and cocoa powder.

Blend until smooth and serve immediately.

5. Citrus Burst Smoothie

This zesty smoothie is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, loaded with Vitamin C and refreshing flavours.

Ingredients:

1 orange, peeled and segmented

1/2 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

100ml plain yoghurt

1 tablespoon honey

A handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

Add the yoghurt to the blender.

Add the orange and grapefruit segments.

Drizzle in the honey and add the ice cubes.

Blend until smooth and enjoy chilled.

Tips for the Perfect Smoothie

Use Frozen Fruits: For a thicker, creamier consistency, use frozen fruits. They also make your smoothie extra refreshing.

Balance the Flavours: Make sure to balance sweet, sour, and creamy ingredients for a well-rounded taste.

Add Superfoods: Boost your smoothie’s nutritional value by adding superfoods like chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, or spirulina.

Keep it Simple: Start with a base liquid (like almond milk, coconut water, or yoghurt), add a couple of fruits or vegetables, and then finish with seeds, nuts, or a sweetener.

Blend Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well-blended for a smooth and enjoyable texture.

Incorporating these smoothies into your daily routine can help you stay energised, focused, and ready to tackle whatever the day throws at you. Cheers to good health and vitality!

Breakfast. Arguably the most important meal of your day

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day for several key reasons related to health, energy levels, and overall well-being. 

Here's a detailed explanation.

1. Energy Boost

After a night of fasting, breakfast provides the body with its first opportunity to refuel. Skipping breakfast can lead to low blood sugar levels, resulting in feelings of lethargy and decreased cognitive function. A balanced breakfast, such as a bowl of porridge with fruit, provides essential carbohydrates that are broken down into glucose, the primary energy source for the body and brain.

2. Improved Concentration

Eating breakfast can enhance concentration and performance in tasks, whether at work or school. Studies have shown that children and adults who consume breakfast tend to have better memory and cognitive skills. For instance, a simple breakfast of wholemeal toast with eggs can supply proteins and fats necessary for brain function.

3. Metabolism Kickstart

Breakfast helps to kickstart the metabolism, aiding in calorie burning throughout the day. A well-rounded breakfast, such as Greek yoghurt with honey and berries, can help maintain a healthy weight by preventing overeating later in the day and by keeping the metabolic rate steady.

4. Nutrient Intake

Consuming a variety of foods at breakfast ensures that you receive a broad spectrum of nutrients. A typical British breakfast might include a serving of baked beans (rich in protein and fibre), grilled tomatoes (high in vitamins A and C), and a slice of wholegrain bread (providing complex carbohydrates and fibre). These nutrients are essential for maintaining overall health and preventing deficiencies.

5. Better Mood

Starting the day with a nutritious meal can improve mood and reduce stress levels. A breakfast including oats, for instance, provides slow-releasing carbohydrates, which help maintain stable blood sugar levels and avoid mood swings. Adding a banana can further contribute to mood enhancement due to its high content of tryptophan, which the body converts into serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter.

6. Healthier Food Choices

Eating breakfast can lead to healthier food choices throughout the day. Those who skip breakfast are more likely to reach for high-sugar or high-fat snacks to quell mid-morning hunger pangs. By having a wholesome breakfast, such as avocado on toast with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, you set a positive tone for making nutritious choices as the day progresses.

7. Support for Physical Activity

For those engaging in morning exercise, breakfast is crucial for optimal performance and recovery. Consuming a mix of carbohydrates and protein, such as a fruit smoothie with a handful of nuts, provides the necessary fuel and aids muscle repair and growth post-workout.

In conclusion, breakfast serves as a vital meal that not only supplies the body with essential nutrients and energy but also supports mental and physical health, promotes a balanced diet, and fosters overall well-being.

Make Mushrooms the Mane Event in Your Bar This Summer: ZOOZ Set to Energise Non-Alc on-Trade Sales

Modelled on the classic Italian Spritz, and designed  to be enjoyed at Apertivo hour, ZOOZ is a premium energy drink sold in 200ml glass bottles. 

ZOOZ is a first for Personal Trainer and former pro athlete Daniel Soos. It's the first cocktail brand that he has launched. 

Daniel spent a number of years working on and developing his own range of functional blends and smoothies.

He has also witnessed the booming mushroom trend in the gym first hand with his clients. He reports that in particular Lion's Mane and Cordyceps are the most popular.

ZOOZ is, he affirms, a result of needing to offer these ingredients in a delicious, aperitif-style liquid for those who, whilst wanting to continue their wellness journey whilst also wanting to enjoy their nights out with friends and being able to consume delicious drinks. 

Zooz is carefully made with health-promoting ingredients, has nothing artificial, no sugar and is suitable for people who can't tolerate gluten. 

And it's served in glass bottles for specific reasons. Using no plastic bottles and being 100% recyclable.

It's also specially formulated to boost what Daniel describes as the 'three pillars of energy': cognitive, physical and mental.

Lion's Mane is reported to boost cognitive enhancement and is used for a sustained energy boost.

Cordyceps and Ginseng are also used boost physical energy.

A B Vitamin Blend (B3, B6, B7, B12) helps our body use the energy-yielding nutrients contained in the drink.

Where does the flavour come from? It's citrus dominated, with bitter orange peel and lemon, with yuzu to add some balance. 

It has a  pleasing deeper orange hue, and has a rich, viscous mouthfeel, thus offering the discerning drinker a well-rounded drinking experience and is 100% not what people might have come to expect from traditional energy drinks. 

It's best served chilled over ice, with an orange peel garnish.

For On-Trade and Sales Enquiries, please contact Herchelle Perez Terrado | Herchelle@zoozdrinks.com | 0044 7917 032 764. 

Or visit https://www.zoozdrinks.com 

Celebrate Global Running Day with Nutritious Foods

Global Running Day is a worldwide celebration of running that encourages everyone to get moving. 

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a novice just starting, the right nutrition can enhance your running experience. 

Here’s a guide to foods that will fuel your body and keep you energised for your run.

Pre-Run Power: Energise with Carbohydrates

Before you hit the pavement, it’s essential to consume foods that provide a steady release of energy. Carbohydrates are your best friend here as they are your body’s primary source of fuel.

Bananas: Rich in potassium and easy to digest, bananas provide a quick energy boost and help prevent muscle cramps.

Oatmeal: A bowl of oatmeal topped with a bit of honey and some fresh fruit is a fantastic way to start your day. It offers a mix of complex carbs and fibre, ensuring a slow and steady release of energy.

Toast with Peanut Butter: Whole-grain toast with a smear of peanut butter gives you a combination of carbs and protein, perfect for a morning run.

During the Run: Stay Hydrated and Energised

For longer runs, it's important to keep your energy levels up and stay hydrated.

Energy Gels or Chews: These are convenient sources of quick energy during long runs. They’re easy to carry and digest, providing a fast hit of glucose.

Sports Drinks: These are useful for replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat. Opt for drinks with balanced electrolytes and a moderate amount of carbohydrates.

Water: Staying hydrated is crucial. For shorter runs, water is usually sufficient, but for longer distances, consider drinks that also provide electrolytes.

Post-Run Recovery: Replenish and Repair

After your run, focus on foods that help replenish your glycogen stores and repair muscle tissues.

Greek Yoghurt with Berries: Greek yoghurt is high in protein, which aids muscle recovery, and berries add a touch of natural sweetness and antioxidants.

Chicken and Quinoa Salad: This meal combines lean protein from chicken and complex carbohydrates from quinoa, making it an excellent post-run recovery dish.

Smoothies: Blend up a smoothie with spinach, banana, protein powder, and almond milk for a refreshing and nutrient-packed recovery drink.

Snack Smart: Healthy Choices Throughout the Day

In addition to your main meals, keep your energy levels stable with smart snacks.

Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are all packed with essential nutrients and healthy fats.

Hummus with Veggies: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell peppers dipped in hummus make for a tasty and nutritious snack.

Apple Slices with Almond Butter: This snack provides a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

Hydration: The Unsung Hero

Don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated throughout the day. Drink plenty of water and include foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries, to keep your hydration levels up.

Conclusion

On Global Running Day, let’s not only celebrate the joy of running but also the nourishment that keeps us going. By fuelling your body with the right foods, you’ll enhance your performance, enjoy your runs more, and recover faster. So, lace up those trainers, enjoy a nutritious meal, and hit the road with energy and enthusiasm. Happy running!

The Looming Crisis: High Energy Costs Threaten Britain's Beloved Pubs and Restaurants

In the heart of every British city, town and village, you'll find a quintessential institution: the pub. These cozy corners of community life have been the backdrop for countless gatherings, celebrations, and heartfelt conversations for many centuries. 

Similarly, restaurants across the nation offer a diverse array of culinary delights, drawing locals and tourists alike to savor their unique flavours. However, beneath the convivial atmosphere and gastronomic delights lies a looming crisis that threatens to dim the lights of these cherished establishments: the soaring cost of energy and the crushing weight of the cost of living crisis.

Britain's pub and restaurant sector has long been an integral part of our cultural fabric, but recent challenges have pushed many establishments to the brink. Among the most pressing issues is the relentless rise in energy costs. From heating to lighting and kitchen appliances, energy is a vital component of daily operations for pubs and restaurants. However, the sharp increase in energy prices in recent years has placed an unprecedented strain on businesses already grappling with thin profit margins.

The cost of living crisis further compounds these challenges. As the prices of essentials such as food, fuel, and housing continue to escalate, consumers are left with less disposable income to spend on dining out or enjoying a pint at their local pub. This has led to a decline in footfall and a reduction in consumer spending, further squeezing the already tight margins of pubs and restaurants.

One of the most visible impacts of these challenges is the closure of beloved establishments. According to recent reports, hundreds of pubs and restaurants have closed their doors for good in the past year alone, unable to withstand the financial pressures exacerbated by high energy costs and the cost of living crisis. Each closure represents not only the loss of a business but also the loss of local jobs and the erosion of community spaces that play an essential role in bringing people together.

Moreover, the ripple effects of these closures extend far beyond the doors of individual establishments. The hospitality sector is a significant contributor to the British economy, providing employment opportunities for millions of people across the country. The closure of pubs and restaurants not only results in job losses but also disrupts supply chains and affects ancillary businesses that rely on the patronage of these establishments.

So, what can be done to support Britain's struggling pubs and restaurants in the face of these challenges? First and foremost, urgent action is needed to address the root causes of the crisis. Government intervention to mitigate the impact of soaring energy costs through targeted subsidies or tax relief measures would provide much-needed relief to struggling businesses. 

Similarly, measures to alleviate the burden of the cost of living crisis, such as increasing wages or reducing VAT on hospitality services, could help stimulate consumer confidence and spending and bolster the resilience of the sector.

Furthermore, collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and energy providers is essential to develop sustainable solutions that ensure the long-term viability of Britain's pub and restaurant sector. This may involve investment in energy-efficient technologies, promoting renewable energy sources, and exploring alternative business models that prioritise sustainability and resilience.

Ultimately, the fate of Britain's pubs and restaurants hangs in the balance. As cherished symbols of community and tradition, they deserve our support and protection in the face of mounting challenges. By addressing the underlying issues of high energy costs and the cost of living crisis, we can ensure that these vital institutions continue to thrive for generations to come. The time to act is now, before it's too late to save the heart and soul of Britain's culinary landscape.

Living off the grid? Jackery could help you

Some readers of That's Food and Drink live off the grid, meaning that they aren't connected to power systems or, sometimes, even water or sewerage systems.

This can cause problems because a lack of electrical power can mean that they are limited in storage of food because refrigeration and freezing isn't readily available. 

However, there are options that are available to provide off grid homes with mains quality electricity supplies so that using fridges, freezers and even cooking with electricity is possible.

Jackery, which is a truly global leader in innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solutions, is genuinely pleased and thrilled to announce their Solar Generator 2000 Plus has been awarded the esteemed SEAL Sustainable Product Award for 2023. 

This prestigious accolade brings great emphasis that Jackery's dedication to offering sustainable energy solutions that empower individuals and contribute to a greener future is well-deserved.

The SEAL Sustainable Products Award is a globally recognised honour that celebrates products and services with outstanding sustainability attributes. Annually, the SEAL Awards organisation conducts a rigorous evaluation process to identify and honour companies and products which prioritise sustainability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.

The SG 2000 Plus is a revolutionary solar generator that employs the sun's energy to provide clean and renewable power for a variety of applications. Equipped with high-efficiency IBC solar panels and a durable LiFePO4 battery for storage of electrical energy, this advanced generator offers a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol generators.

"We're truly honoured and pleased to receive the SEAL Sustainable Products Award 2023 for our SG 2000 Plus," said Lara Luo, Head of Branding at Jackery. 

"Here at Jackery, we believe in the power of innovation to drive positive change. This recognition underscores our commitment to developing sustainable, portable power solutions that enable individuals to embrace renewable energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint."

The SG 2000 Plus is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, home backup, emergency preparedness, and off-grid adventures. Its versatile AC, DC, and USB ports provide ample connectivity options for a wide variety of electronic devices and equipment, making it an all-in-one power solution for any situation. 

It's carefully designed for user convenience and the transportation-friendly generator is easy to use and offers reliable performance in challenging environments.

For more information about Jackery's Solar Generator 2000 Plus and other innovative portable power solutions, please visit uk.jackery.com.

Incidentally, I first became aware of the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus by chance when a YouTuber I follow, Nate Petroski of @Narrowayhomestead, described setting up and using one of these devices.