Spicy Grapefruit Smoothie
This Spicy Grapefruit Smoothie is a metabolism-boosting, fat burning, anti-inflammatory glass of deliciousness. The perfect breakfast or post workout re-hydrator, this spicy little powerhouse is my copycat of one of my favorite smoothies from the superfood spot Beaming, in Del Mar. The taste and texture is similar to that of a margarita or slushie, while actually having health benefits... Unlike the aforementioned sugary drinks.
Grapefruit: Aids in digestion and utilization of foods. Consuming grapefruit burns as many calories as it contains (making it an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight). A single grapefruit contains about 75 mg vitamin C. Red grapefruit is a good source of lycopene; a phytonutrient with anti-tumor properties. Grapefruit are also high in potassium. [1]
Coconut Water: When we sweat, we lose a lot of minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium). Coconut water has a natural balance of these minerals - also known as electrolytes, making it the perfect beverage for hydrating the body and replenishing lost stores of vital nutrients—even more effective than water itself! [2]
Chili Flakes: Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers, which are plants belonging to the genus Capsicum. Capsaicin stimulates metabolism by activating a chain of events in the body that help to melt fat and break it down in the body. It activates the sympathetic nervous system that is associated with thermogenesis, which speeds the body’s oxidation of fat. With exercise, studies have shown that Capsaicin increases fat oxidation by 42%! Fat oxidation is the process by which the body melts excess fat and converts it into energy. Capsaicin has also been shown in some trials to also decrease appetite, improve circulation and have some antioxidant effects. [3]
Makes enough for 2
2 whole grapefruit
peel removed
1 1/2 cups pineapple
frozen or fresh
1 1/2 cups coconut water
red chili flakes
2 tsp or more, to taste
1/2 cup ice
Place all ingredients except ice in blender, and bend until smooth. Add ice, and blend again until smooth. Divide into glasses. Enjoy!
