Neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki makes herself a green smoothie for breakfast every morning.
It’s a recipe she always relies on to reduce anxiety states. But it’s not just the nutritious ingredients that support brain health. The specialist told mindbodygreen.com that the process itself of making this smoothie helps her calm down before a busy day.
So, what does the neuroscientist include in a smoothie that is beneficial for brain health?
How to make the green smoothie recommended by Dr. Wendy Suzuki
This smoothie is full of beneficial ingredients for brain health. It includes bananas, a fruit known for being rich in magnesium. Studies have shown that a lack of magnesium can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to anxiety.
Spinach, another ingredient in the brain health smoothie, contains many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, folate, and lutein.
Last but not least, it also contains apples, and studies have shown that they help maintain adequate levels of acetylcholine, the most important brain neurotransmitter, which decreases with age.
What’s more, Dr Suzuki believes that the ritual of making this smoothie in the morning is somewhat meditative. It’s a time when she can calm her mind and focus solely on the present action of making a healthy and delicious drink. “It becomes a particular superpower for those of us that have anxiety,” says the doctor.
Here’s how to make the green smoothie for brain health recommended by neurophysiologist Wendy Suzuki
Ingredients
- 1 banana (can be frozen if you want your smoothie to be creamier)
- 1 large handful of fresh spinach
- 1/2 stalk celery
- 1 green apple
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 cup water (you can add more or less depending on the consistency you prefer)
Preparation
1. Place all ingredients in blender and blend until creamy.
2. Serve immediately.
You can adapt the recipe and add your favorite ingredients. For example, you can add a source of healthy fats like avocado or peanut/almond butter for extra satiety. Whatever ingredients you choose to use, follow the advice of the neuroscientist, and enjoy the smoothie making process. It can help you soothe your mind and achieve a state of calmness.