If you are feeling tired and in need of some quick re-hydration then this home- made Coconut Banana Energy Drink is definitely one to try.
There are a number of different energy drinks you can buy, as mentioned in one of my previous posts http://www.nrgizedmum.com/avoid-energy-drinks/ these may not be the best option. While they may give you energy, they also have other unpleasant additives that are not good for your long term health.
So what can you have instead? Something that is easy to make? And is healthier?
With this Coconut Banana Energy drink, you can benefit from drinking coconut water, but it has a more pleasant taste than on its own. There are a number of coconut waters you can buy other than the fresh kind, (which i prefer), and although they are more palatable they have unfortunately been flavoured with sugar, so I wanted to make one that didn’t contain sugar, for a healthier version. This Coconut Banana Recipe only contains the natural sugar from the banana and it is sweet enough without adding any extra sweeteners, just make sure the banana is ripe.
I love the combination of bananas and coconuts in most things and this is no exception. Coconut water has seen a rise in popularity with studies linking it to many health benefits. In terms of re-hydration it may not be any better than water. A study in 2002 showed that compared to water it did not show any better rehydrating effects. But it’s the other properties it contains that makes it a winner in my eyes. I have added a little cinnamon to the recipe, for its blood sugar balancing properties, to curb hunger, and for its delicious flavour.
Coconut Water Health Benefits
Coconut water is packed full of electrolytes which we need to maintain our blood volume, for better heart health and prevent de-hydration. The potassium in the coconut water and banana’s also counteracts the negative effects of sodium, helping to lower blood pressure, which is particularly good if you have a diet that contains processed food that is high in sodium.
In 2006, a study on rats that were given coconut water had a decreased risk of having a heart attack. Researchers believe that it is because of the potassium, calcium and magnesium in the coconut water that helped improve heart health.
Coconut milk, which is made from the fleshy part of the coconut, is more calorific than the coconut water, however it too contains potassium, magnesium, manganese, folate, calcium and selenium, making it packed full of great health enhancing minerals. Magnesium is known to have a relaxing effect on the muscles, leaving you energized and relaxed at the same time, what more could you ask.
Why not give it a try it and see for yourself. I would love to hear about your energizing recipes if you have any?
ingredients serves one
Coconut Banana Energy Drink
1/2 Cup Coconut Water
1/2 Cup Coconut Milk
1 banana
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Method
Blend all the ingredients together in a blender, serve and enjoy. If you prefer it colder add a couple of ice cubes before blending, or use a frozen banana.
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