Maca Pumpkin Smoothie!

It's that time of year to take advantage of all the wonderful pumpkins, squash and other fabulous gourds out there.  I came upon this recipe from This House of Joy, which has amazing recipes.  It takes two of my favorite things and combines them into a super hearty, healthy morning smoothie.  It's the perfect way to kick off the day!

What is MACA? 

• Maca is a plant from the Peruvian Andes.  Its root has been prized for thousands of years due to its ability to increase energy, stamina and fertility for all people and animals who eat it.
• Maca is very nutrient-dense.   Dried Maca root contains 13-16% protein, 8.5% fiber, 19 essential amino acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and D, minerals iron, magnesium, copper, zinc, sodium, potassium, calcium, several glucosinolates, 20 free fatty acids, and unique compounds called macaenes and macamides.  Beyond that, Maca is one of only a handful of foods considered to be an “adaptogen.”
• Maca can aid in hormone balancing, endocrine and thyroid function enhancement and even immune system enhancement.

In addition to maca, this smoothie is boosted with:

• Collagen for hair, skin, nails, and gut health.
• Coconut oil for fatty acids, metabolism, and anti-microbial properties.
• Bee pollen for energy and a boost to the immune system.

If you are wondering where can I purchase some maca?  Many health food stores and co-ops carry it.  Also you can order it online.  Sunfoods carries a very nice quality maca that I use:

http://bit.ly/SunfoodMaca 

 

Superfood Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

Serves: 1

Ingredients

• ¼ c pumpkin puree
• 1 c milk (I use fresh cashew or coconut milk or canned light coconut milk)
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tbsp collagen (Vital Proteins or Great Lakes)**
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (Tropical Traditions is great)
• 2 dates
• 1 tbsp red maca
• ½-1 tsp bee pollen
• ¼ tsp vanilla
• Handful of pecans (around ⅛ cup)
• stevia, raw honey, or maple syrup to taste (I used 4 drops stevia)
• 1-2 cups ice
• Optional: Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream to garnish
• **If you are vegan, omit the collagen, bee pollen, and honey and choose a vegan protein powder and sweetener.

Instructions

1. Place everything except ice in the blender and blend until smooth
2. Add ice and blend to desired consistency
3. Top with whipped cream or coconut whipped cream

 Enjoy~
http://bit.ly/SunfoodMaca