If you need a little pick me up this smoothie is just the thing for you. Not only does it contain plenty of antioxidants and carotenoids from the fresh ginger, spinach and carrots in it, the marvellous maca powder gives it a lovely creamy taste and a welcome energy boost.

Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) powder is an incredible supplement. Grown in the high Andes and derived from a radish-like root vegetable from the brassica family, it boasts a number of health benefits. These include high levels of vitamins and minerals, improved sexual function, increased energy levels, improved mood and even some dermatological benefits. There have been various studies recently researching these dermatological benefits which have resulted in a proliferation of skin products containing maca powder extract.

Cultivated in the Junin district of Peru for over two and a half thousand years it has long been used to improve fertility in humans and livestock. It was reportedly used by Inca warriors before battle to improve their performance and many professional athletes use it today during the peak period of their training.

If you’re new to maca powder just start off with half a teaspoon a day increasing it to a whole teaspoon if you’re comfortable with it. Make sure you consume it raw as cooking will destroy a lot of its vitamins and minerals. The powder itself has a delicious malty or butterscotch flavour that goes particularly well in this type of smoothie, so even if you’re not looking for the health benefits just add it for its great taste.

Recipe

1. Pop all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.