Smoothies get a lot of bad press within the Chinese medicine community however I believe that this is a misunderstanding of the theory of traditional Chinese medicine nutritional therapy, which warns against cold foods. Chinese medicine emphasises balance and advises on cold foods for certain conditions.
Few things can beat the sweltering summer heat better than a cold smoothie, even if you’re watching your sugar intake. Not all smoothies are created equal: The average restaurant fruit smoothie carries anywhere between 10-20 teaspoons of sugar!
The best way to enjoy this sweet treat is to prepare your own, and to sip it in moderation – one cup at a time. This recipe is an excellent genuine low sugar treat.
Ingredients
- 170 grams fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tablespoons reduced-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons smooth natural peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 cup ice cubes
Directions
- Add all ingredients to a blender, and blend until smooth.
Then, share it with a buddy and enjoy!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Serves: 2 | Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 152; Total fat: 9g; Monounsaturated fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 1mg; Sodium: 48mg; Total Carbohydrate: 17g; Dietary fiber: 6g; Sugar: 8g; Protein: 5g
Traditional Chinese Medicine theory
Raspberries: Nourish Yin, strengthen and stabilise the Kidneys to preserve vital energy, and treat cases of liver and kidney deficiency, conserves Jing. Peanuts: Strengthen Qi and Blood, Moistens the Lungs, regulate water, resolve phlegm. Honey: Cultivate Qi, Nourish Yin, Promote the Smooth Flow of Qi and Blood, Eliminates toxins. Milk: Tonify deficiency, Nourish the Lung and Stomach, promote the secretion of body fluid, moisten the intestines, Nourish Blood, Eliminate toxicity.
James O’Sullivan - that's me, a people friendly practitioner and lecturer of Integrated Medicine, serving my patients, my students and the public with the positive benefits of both Conventional Western Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's a wonderful life
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to diagnose or assess. The information provided is not to be considered a substitute for consultation with a qualified health care practitioner.