Healthy Greetings Dear Friends! I don't know about you, but every January I get into this physical and mental "funk" (for lack of a better word). It could be because I live in northern, coastal Maine and we experience a lack of energizing sunlight, a shortage of vitamin D, and terribly cold temperatures. Or, it could be the natural process that occurs after the Holidays - I often feel bloated due to eating too many salty, sweet, and processed foods (and not exercising regularly) which results in mid-section weight-gain, under-eye circles and puffiness, a lack of energy, and a less-than-cheery disposition. Whatever the cause for this "feeling of funkiness", it's a must that I shake it off, lest I continue the downward spiral into winter laziness, work procrastination (I'm self-employed and write "health books" for a living, remember?), and a 10-pound gain that's hard to shed come swimsuit season.
So, what do I do to get "back in the game" and feel that zest for living again, lose the bloat, and regain my energy and radiant glow? I reach for high-powered, nutrition-filled green drinks and I'll share one of my favorites with you today . . . "Watercress Tango". It's quick to make, rather low in calories, and tastes amazingly fresh and zingy! Winter is the best time to enjoy this drink as grapefruits are super succulent and juicy! You can also find the recipe on page 126 of my latest book, Raw Energy In A Glass. Give it a try, won't you? I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
Watercress Tango
Watercress has a definite warming, peppery bite that pairs well with grapefruit's cooling tang. Bursting with nutrients that restore energy and stamina, this amazing green tonic will have you refreshed and raring to go in no time flat!
This is the ultimate fortification beverage to consume to fend off colds and the flu. Additionally, it helps boost digestive function; beautify hair, skin, and nails; and strengthen bones. Incredibly rich in minerals, this zippy drink also helps build blood, alleviating anemia and fatigue.
Ingredients:
- Juice of 2 medium pink or red grapefruits
- 2 cups watercress, chopped, loosely packed
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil, unfiltered preferred
- Pinch of sea salt
Directions:
1. Place the grapefruit juice, watercress, flaxseed oil, and salt in a high-powered blender and blend on high until green and frothy, about 30 seconds or so (depending on your particular blender). Blend long enough so that the watercress is completely liquefied.
2. Serve immediately, sip slowly, and feel the dynamic energy coursing through your veins!
Yield: 1 or 2 servings
A Good Source Of: blood-building iron and chlorophyll, bountiful antioxidants, vitamins C, E, and K, folic acid, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, other trace minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, natural sugars, and fiber
NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles. Recipe was reprinted with permission of Storey Publishing and excerpted from "Raw Energy In A Glass" (c2014). The information is true and complete to the best of Stephanie's knowledge. All recommendation are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of the information. It is for educational purposes only.
