Rise & Shine with a Morning Glow Berry Smoothie for Radiant Skin
A smoothie makes a great breakfast first thing in the morning since it’s incredibly easy to pull together, but it still gives your body the nutrients it needs for the day — and it could be just the thing you need for glowing, radiant skin. Certified clinical naturopath, nutritionist, and Alo Moves Pilates instructor Bianca Melas has a go-to for radiant skin that she calls a Morning Glow Smoothie. It’s not only super delicious, but it also packs a healthy skin-boosting punch with its vitamins and anti-inflammatory benefits.
“This is one of my favorite smoothies to add into my morning routine,” says Melas. “I love that there’s a lot of protein in there that’s going to really help sustain your energy levels throughout the day, as well as some really beautiful vitamins and minerals that are just amazing for glowing skin.”
Just because the name specifies "morning” doesn’t mean it’s only limited to that timeframe. This skin-clearing smoothie works after afternoon and evening workouts as well to refuel the nutrients that your body needs after a serious sweat. As part of Bianca’s 7-Day Pilates Glow Retreat on Alo Moves, she shares her special recipe so that everyone can feel nourished before or after one of her strength-building workouts.
First up are the berries. She prefers frozen ones for a thicker consistency, but you can also opt for fresh ones. “I love to include berries in my morning smoothie as they are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Melas. These antioxidants help fight free radicals, which contribute to skin damage and collagen break down over time. The banana adds some fiber and helps thicken the smoothie consistency. Then almond butter is thrown into the mix, which has both carbohydrates and protein.
“It’s really important when making your morning smoothie that you’re balancing out the carbohydrates with some protein,” she explains. “Protein is going to make that carbohydrate last longer in your body, which gives you a longer-lasting energy boost.” Almond butter also has protein and vitamin E, another antioxidant to boost your skin’s health.
Next up is organic coconut milk straight from the can, which adds a refreshing tropical flavor but also good fat in the form of MCT, or medium chain triglycerides. This anti-inflammatory can improve your brain and heart health and can help those who have diabetes. Then, hemp, flax, and chia seeds add protein, fiber, and omegas — all important nutrients for your body to function well so you can glow from the inside out. Lastly, top it off with coconut water for a hydration boost with all the electrolytes your body needs. It can also help with skin hydration and collagen production.
Follow the full recipe below and enjoy your “glow” in a glass!
A Nutritionist’s Favorite Smoothie
for Glowing Skin
Ingredients
1 handful frozen berries
1/2 frozen banana
1-2 Tbsp. almond butter
¾ cup coconut milk straight from the can or cream
1 Tbsp. flax seeds
1 Tbsp. chia seeds
1 Tbsp. hemp seeds
Coconut water
1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
Add all ingredients into a blender and mix until thick.
Top smoothie with extra hemp and flax seeds.
Tip
For a thinner consistency, add coconut water or tap water. For a thicker consistency, ensure the fruit is frozen and reduce the amount of liquid used.
Glowing Skin Smoothie Benefits
Berries have antioxidants and are anti-inflammatory
Almond butter has protein and vitamin E
Coconut milk or cream has healthy fats
Flax and hemp seeds have fiber and zinc
ABOUT BIANCA MELAS
Bianca is an accredited Pilates instructor and certified clinical naturopath and nutritionist. She works to empower her clients with the knowledge that movement can serve as medicine and heal the body in unimaginable ways.
Her desire to help others transform physically, emotionally, and spiritually does not stop at movement. Growing up Italian, food was always at the heart of her home. She quickly learned the value of home-grown produce, the power of herbs, and how food can cure ailments. Bianca is passionate about sharing her wisdom within the two practices to encourage those around her to become their optimum selves.
For more of Bianca's wellness tips and to join her 7-Day Pilates Glow Retreat, start your free 14-day trial to Alo Moves.
