I discovered this smoothie back when I was in the middle of a detox week, this apple cinnamon smoothie is considered a detox smoothie. I’m not sure how all that works but I like it a lot–detox or not.
I personally didn’t add any sugar back when I was on my detox kick but if you really need it sweet add a sweetener or 1/2 a small banana. But the banana may alter the taste of the apple cinnamon smoothie so be warned. I was amazed at how the cinnamon tricked my senses into thinking that it was sweet so I could enjoy it without any sugar.
So, I did some research on cinnamon and discovered it’s a “superfood”. It controls insulin levels, decreases blood sugar, speeds metabolism among other things. You can read more about it here. Obviously, cinnamon alone can’t accomplish all of these things but it aides in the process. Here’s what I read (just click the link above to read the whole article),
As mentioned in the discussion of how cinnamon helps control insulin levels, the spice has the ability to alter the metabolism of not only sugar, but of carbohydrates as well. Your body is better able to use your carbohydrate storage, so that they do not turn into excess fat. The consumption of cinnamon itself, also causes a metabolic reaction. Similar to when you eat hot peppers, the presence of the cinnamon in your body allows your metabolism to speed up just because it takes a little extra energy to metabolize. This boost in metabolism allows you to burn more calories and assists with weight loss in this way.”
I’m sure the green apple has some great nutrients also but I didn’t do research on that. Which speaking of apples I use my NutriBullet and it pulverizes the apple so there are no chunks left. If you don’t have one of those mega blenders make sure you blend it a bit longer. I personally like it chunky!
Apple Cinnamon Smoothie
2 small glasses or 1 serving (THM friendly–E)
ingredients:
- 1 small green apple, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- 1 cup of coconut water or 1/2 cup of coconut water & 1/2 almond milk
- 4 ice cubes
- 1/2-1 tsp sweetener of your choice my favorite is Pyure
- optional: 2 tablespoons vanilla whey protein
1. Place all of the above ingredients in a blender and enjoy!
Note: I don’t put sugar in mine but if you’re needing it to be sweet add 1 teaspoon of your favorite sweetener or 1/2 a banana as a natural sweetener.
It’s so refreshing, I love having one after my workout or midmorning snack.
