Cucumber Mint Smoothie

The combination of cool and refreshing cucumber and mint make a delicious summer smoothie that helps to keep you hydrated and prevents heat strokes. It is the perfect breakfast that keeps you satiated for a prolonged period of time without adding too many calories which aids weight loss.

High water and fiber content in this smoothie helps to detoxify the system and flush out toxins, harmful chemicals and heavy metals from the body and improve the function of the kidneys and liver. It also acts as an instant source of energy. Dietary fiber present in the smoothie also aids digestion and helps to relieve constipation and diarrhea.

Cucumber is a low-calorie fat-free fruit that provides high level of healthy macronutrients and aids weight loss in a healthy way. High level of fiber and fluids in cucumber aids digestion and helps to maintain bowel health. Mineral potassium present in cucumber helps to maintain electrolyte balance in the body and maintain fluid level in the body and in and around the cells.

Potassium also helps to lower high blood pressure and support proper muscle contraction and maintain normal heart rhythm. Vitamin A and vitamin C present in cucumber protects the cells against free radical damage, prevents DNA damage and helps to maintain skin, eye and immune system health.

Mint or pudina is a refreshing and flavourful herb that is especially effective in relieving digestive disorders. The oils present in mint leaves helps to relieve cramps, gas and indigestion and treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Compound peryllyl alcohol present in mint has anticancer properties; it inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Mint contains abundant amount of minerals manganese and copper that supports healthy nerve function and maintain the communication between brain cells. Vitamin A present in mint acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects vision and reduces the risk of cataracts and night blindness. Mint also contains significant amount of iron and folate. Both these nutrients support the formation of red blood cells and prevent anemia.

Ginger is one of the most beneficial spices that provide a wide range of health benefits. The volatile oils and pungent chemicals gingerols and shogaols found in ginger aid digestion by stimulating bile and enzyme production and help to relieve gastrointestinal disorders such as indigestion, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Anti-inflammatory properties of ginger helps to relieve chronic inflammation and relieve pain and discomfort associated with arthritis and rheumatism. Ginger also acts as a brain tonic that improves cognition and boosts attention, accuracy and quality of memory.

Here is the recipe…

Ingredients:

• Cucumber pieces – 1 cup
• Mint leaves – ½ cup
• Cumin powder – ¼ teaspoon
• Ginger – ¼ teaspoon

Procedure:

• Pour cucumber pieces, mint leaves and ginger pieces in the blender.
• Finally, add cumin powder and blend them well at high speed until smooth.
• Transfer this mix into your serving glass and enjoy this smoothie to shed down your excess weight.

Start your day on a healthy and refreshing note with this delicious cucumber and mint smoothie and stay energized and active throughout the day without piling on any empty calories.