Healthy Red Velvet Shake

There's nothing like a sweet, healthy Red Velvet Shake on a day like on Valentine's or any day - don't you think?

This Red Velvet Shake seems sinful, but it totally not and I guarantee you'll *love it*. 

Easy ingredients, and easy to whip up - what's not to adore?

So if you want to share this red smoothie with your sweetie today or you just want to spoil  yourself, try this treat.

Let me tell you why this not only tastes good, but is amazing for you!

BEETS Beets contain several vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients.  Pyridoxine (vitamin B6), folate (vitamin B9), vitamin C, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and fiber are all present in substantial amounts and contribute to overall health and well-being.  Beets are also an excellent source of betalains, a group of phytonutrient pigments that research indicates can provide support for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and detoxifying mechanisms. 

STRAWBERRIES  Strawberries are extremely rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients like anthocyanins, flavonols and ellagitannins.  Their antioxidant content has been ranked as number 4 among all fruits, trailing only blackberries, cranberries and raspberries.

These deliciously sweet fruits are also an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, fiber and vitamin B9 (folate).  Lesser amounts of beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin E, iodine, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), biotin (vitamin B7), calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus are also present.  Much of a strawberry’s fiber is contained in its seeds.

FULL FAT COCONUT MILK Coconut milk is good for blood pressure, helps to build muscle and lose fat, improve digestion, relieves constipation and may help stabilize blood sugar. 

DATES  Dates are a good source of vitamins and minerals. Its a good source of energy, sugar and fiber and helps relieve constipation. Potassium in dates can also aid upset stomachs and diarrhea. They are a digestive tract balancer and also strengthen good bacteria in the stomach.

Healthy Red Velvet Shake Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 cup full fat coconut milk

1/2 cup crushed ice

1 small beet, chopped

1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

2 dates, pitted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp cocoa powder or cacao nibs (add more if you like it chocolate-y)

Directions

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.  Serve.  

Note: This recipe works best in a high speed blender.  You can also used cooked beets, which is easier to make on regular blender, but raw will have more nutrients and enzymes.  I think this is sweet enough, but if you like it sweeter feel free to add more dates or honey/stevia.