We tend to think that Winter is when we get colds – but in fact you can get a cold or flu at any time of year. Living in a hot climate, I get occasional colds irrespective of the season. Of course, a tried-and-trusted way to prevent colds and flu is hand-washing and lots of immune-boosting vitamins. And vitamin-packed smoothie cubes are a fun (and convenient) way to get them!
Are Supplements OK?
Of course you can take vitamin C supplements. They’re normally made with an artificial chemical called ascorbic acid. It does help – but it’s ALWAYS better to get your nutrients from real food. Your body absorbs them better, and real (unprocessed) food also contains other vitamins and nutrients as well, so you get more immune-boosting nutrients than just vitamin C.
Other Benefits of Vitamin C
Did you know that vitamin C does more than boost yourimmune system? Your body needs vitamin C to produce collagen – and collagen gives you healthy skin and good hair. Vitamin C also helps the brain transmit messages properly, and even helps your body to absorb iron. The antioxidants in vitamin C help fight certain cancers, along with speeding up wound care.
Are You Getting Enough C?
If you eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, then you’re getting enough vitamin C.
And of course, an easy (and fun) way to make sure you get those nutrients is by creating yummy smoothies, especially green smoothies.
For example –
- Combine kale with diced mango and pineapple. Add fresh orange juice or water, and you have a yummy tropical drink that’s full of goodness!
- Add baby spinach leaves to strawberry and banana, with milk or water.
- Carrots and strawberries are both sweet – combine them with some leafy greens for a sweet treat.
- Pineapple and ginger combine to make a refreshing smoothie – add milk of your choice and ice for a lovely tangy drink.
Vitamin C Smoothie Cubes
Smoothie Cubes are a cool shortcut!
A smoothie cube is a concentrated blend of fruits, vegetables and leafy greens that are perfect for when you’re in a rush (or feeling lazy). They give you an extra boost of nutrients, including of course, vitamin C.
You can use them instead of adding other fruit and veg, or you can add them to other fruit and veg – it’s up to you!
How to Make Vitamin C Smoothie Cubes
Making smoothie cubes is very simple. Just blend all of the ingredients until smooth, and then pour into ice cube trays. Freeze them and then store them in the freezer so they are handily available whenever you need an extra dose of immune-boosting vitamins.
Smoothie Cube Recipe
This is a lovely tropical recipe –
- 2 large oranges
- 1 cup / 150g papaya, cubed
- 1 cup / 150g pineapple, cubed
- 1 cup / 150g mango, cubed
- 1 cup / 150g cauliflower florets, thinly sliced
- Add to blender and blend. The oranges should provide enough juice to make a smooth puree, but add fresh orange juice or water if you need to.
- Freeze until firm – about 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container and store in the freezer until you need it. It should keep for about 6 months.
To use, simply add smoothie cubes to your smoothie. 4 smoothie cubes replace about 1/2 cup / 75 g of fresh fruit and veggies.
How to Change the Smoothie Cube Recipe
Substitute any vitamin C-rich fruit or vegetable, such as strawberries, sweet bell pepper, cauliflower, cantaloupe, kiwi, or others in place of 1 or more of the ingredients listed above.
