extra ingredients for green smoothies [part 8 of 9]

Brewer’s (nutritional) yeast

Brewer’s or “nutritional” yeast is grown on barley, and it is often used as a supplement, especially for nursing mothers.   It is high in protein, and it is also extremely rich in B vitamins.   It has been linked to reduction of symptoms of diabetes, eczema, constipation, and hypoglycemia.

It is also one of very few plant sources of B12.   Vegetarian lifestyles are often criticized because of low Vitamin B12, and while vegetarians may not actually be suffering from low B12 (depending on which study you are looking at), using aloe vera and nutritional yeast are good ways to address that, if you are avoiding all red meat as many health-conscious vegetarians and vegans do.

Cayenne

Cayenne has long been used not only as a “heat” spice, but also for the medicinal purpose of opening the arteries and preventing cardiac events.   Cayenne is well known to herbalists for its ability to accelerate and intensify the effects of other herbs.   It will add heat and interesting flavor to your smoothies, and it will also open your blood vessels, improving blood flow.

Posted in: Green Smoothies, Recipes, Whole Food