Serenity Huyen Nghiem Tinh – 08/21/2024

As a licensed esthetician and certified wellness coach, I want to share and bring my knowledge of anti-aging and wellness. Being responsible, on my own, for three generations, I understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Self-care and healthy eating are not just personal choices but also a responsibility we owe ourselves and our loved ones. We cannot care for others if we are not healthy. Proper nutrition and eating a healthy diet daily is essential to boost energy and keep youthful skin.

Here’s a Smoothie recipe that’s packed with anti-aging properties, energy-boosting nutrients, and is anti-inflammatory.

Oranges—The Vitamin C in oranges helps even out skin tone and texture by supporting the production of collagen, making your complexion firmer and more taut and wrinkles less noticeable.
Spinach – Has anti-aging power, a nutritional marvel for youthful vitality as we age. While many turn to skincare products and treatments, the foundation of anti-aging lies in our diet. One powerful ally in the battle against aging is spinach, a nutrient-dense leafy green that offers a comprehensive range of health benefits that includes supporting your skin, as well as bone, eye, heart, and brain health.

Avocados have many anti-aging benefits for the skin, including:
Vitamins B3, C and E, carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) which are UV-filtering effects and neutralize free radicals and antioxidants to help ease inflammation, such as from sunburns, and promote collagen production

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds contain all nine essential amino acids. Their protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide a steady source of energy. Quercetin, another component, is incredibly potent and may help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

Honey contains antioxidants like phenolic acids and flavonoids that may help protect cells from damage. Honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help treat wounds and burns, and some studies suggest that manuka honey can help with chronic wound infections and throat conditions.
Almond milk is the most popular plant milk in the United States. Some benefits include strengthening bones and helping lower the risk of heart disease. Almond milk also contains healthy fats, magnesium and potassium minerals that can help prevent high blood pressure and promote heart health, bone health, skin health,
and weight management.

Coconut water known for its hydrating properties, may also support gut health. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects may benefit the gut microbiome. When choosing coconut water, you should look for brands that do not include added sugar.

***Please note: You can customize your smoothie with almond milk, coconut water, or both.

Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (rich in antioxidants and vitamins)
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented (high in vitamin C)
– 1 ripe avocado (provides healthy fats and nutrients)
– 1 teaspoon raw honey (natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory properties)
– 1 teaspoon of chia seeds (mix the chia seeds and water, ensuring that the seeds are fully covered. Soak for a couple of hours or overnight. Note: Soaking the chia seeds overnight means getting more nourishment from them, as the long soaking time allows the enzymes to be activated.)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 cup of coconut water

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly. Peel and segment the orange. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh.
2. Blend: In a blender, combine the spinach, orange segments, avocado, chia seeds, honey, and almond milk (or coconut water).
3. Blend Until Smooth: Blend quickly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the ice cubes and blend again if you prefer a colder smoothie.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie. If you prefer it to be sweeter, add a bit more honey. If it’s too thick, add more almond milk or coconut water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best taste and nutrient benefits, or you can leave it in the refrigerator and drink it throughout the day.