I’ve been really digging on papaya lately. Not only is it delicious if you have a perfectly ripe one (it took me a long time to learn what ripe is for papaya- when the outside gets soft and dark and it almost seems like it is going bad), but papaya is a health powerhouse! Papaya is packed with nutrients and is wonderful for your digestive system. It is anti-inflammatory and can ease pain, including menstrual cramps.
I add papaya seeds in this smoothie, which, yes, you can consume. Papaya seeds are anti-parasitic, filled with digestive enzymes, and aid in liver health.
If you don’t have access to organic papaya, be sure to buy the Mexican papaya NOT Hawaiian! Hawaiian papayas are genetically-modified.
Pink Power Smoothie (not only for the guys)
Serves 1
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 tsp. maca powder
1 tablespoon hemp seeds
1/2 serving vanilla Sunwarrior raw vegan protein
About 1/2 teaspoon size thumb of fresh ginger root or 1/4 tsp. ground ginger (optional, adds some spice as well as the health benefits of ginger)
10 papaya seeds
1 ripe banana
1 frozen banana
5 frozen strawberries
1 cup papaya (about 1/4 of a large)
*You can add 1 cup fresh spinach to get your greens in, as well (it just won’t be a pretty pink color ;))
Add all ingredients to your blender (I suggest a high speed blender like a Vitamix). I also suggest adding them in the order listed.
Blend for 1 minute or until everything is combined together. Add more water to reach desired consistency
Pour into a bowl or glass, top with your favorite toppings and ENJOY!
I made a thicker version with less water so it was like ice cream
