Immune-boosting Smoothie Recipe

With winter fast approaching, it’s time to boost the immune system. Try this green smoothie full of key nutrients to help fight the yearly winter bugs, from nutritionist Sally Wisbey.

Ingredients

Half a banana
1 apple (core removed)
¼ cucumber
Small handful of parsley
1 handful of baby leaf spinach
1 handful of kale
1 stalk of celery
1 inch piece of fresh ginger
1 tsp of bee pollen
1 tsp of spirulina

Sally says: "Kale and spinach are abundant in antioxidants, vital for a healthy immune system. These nutrient-dense foods contain good levels of magnesium, zinc and folate, all of which are required to fight infections.

"Bananas are rich in potassium, a key electrolyte that helps restore energy and fights headaches, both often associated with infections. Ginger has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. It has a wonderful anti-inflammatory action, helping to reduce inflammation symptoms such as sore throats or stomach cramps from viral and bacterial infections.

"It also contains anti-nausea properties and is calming on the digestive system, making it the perfect ingredient when feeling sick from winter bugs. Parsley is a great addition, bursting with vitamins A and C, while bee pollen and spirulina are great superfoods high in antioxidants and protein, all of which help to support the immune system."

To find out more about Sally, visit www.sallywisbeynutrition.co.uk or follow her on Twitter:@wizznutrition

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