Heart-Healthy Blueberry Pomegranate Green Smoothie Recipe That’s Vegan Keto Too!

Summer’s here, and it’s time to enjoy all the fresh produce and flavors of the season. I love to create recipes that celebrate nature’s bounty, packed with nutrient-dense greens, powerful sprouts, and antioxidant-rich berries, all designed to keep the heart healthy.

When it’s hot outside, staying cool and hydrated is super important. This smoothie helps with that, combining hydrating blueberries and water with mineral-rich leafy greens to replenish electrolytes and support the heart and hormones.

It’s not just a refreshing drink; it’s a great way to fuel your day. It provides steady energy, and the fiber helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and makes you feel full longer. Whether you sip it in the morning, or whenever you break your fast, or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this smoothie is a convenient and delicious way to prioritize the health of your heart and whole body.

The natural sweetness of the blueberries makes it quite tasty, and the detoxifying properties help balance your hormones, too. So, if you’re ready to cleanse and nourish your body, this is the perfect go-to. It’s easy, nutritious, and a fun way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh veggies while showing love to your heart. Cheers to a healthier, happier you!

What Is A Blueberry Pomegranate Smoothie  Made Of?

At its heart (pun intended), this super easy smoothie is full of fresh, low-carb vegetables and leafy greens, including kale, broccoli sprouts, sunflower sprouts, arugula, and purple cabbage. These are the greens (and purple recommended, but use the dark leafy greens that you enjoy.

There's a pinch of kelp powder, and for those seeking even more nutrients, optional herbal additions like horsetail, nettles, and alfalfa provide minerals that contribute to cardiovascular health and bone health.

Now, let's talk about flavor. This green smoothie combines the earthy goodness of its green base with the sweet tang of blueberries. A splash of lemon juice not only adds a zesty kick but also supports the heart with its cleansing properties, and pomegranate powder delivers its sweet flavor and an additional dose of heart-protective antioxidants.

We're not finished yet. To achieve that coveted creamy texture and infuse a subtle nutty richness, consider adding tahini or your favorite nut butter. These additions not only enhance the smoothie's nutrient profile but also provide healthy fats essential for the heart.

I think it's best to use recipes as a guideline. If you don't like a particular green, or it is difficult to find, swap it out for one you like and can get. It's better for you to make the smoothie with what you have than to not make it at all.

Do you want more protein? Add some clean protein powder or sprouted adzuki beans. Trying to get more omega 3s into your day? Add some flax seeds or chia seeds. Don't have pomegranate powder? Use a tablespoon or two of pomegranate juice.

If you're in the mood for another heart-healthy cleansing meal to complement your smoothie, look no further than our Sprout Salad for energy. It's the perfect springtime pick-me-up to keep your heart and body feeling vibrant and revitalized.

How Do You Make This Cleansing Green Smoothie? 

This smoothie just takes a few easy steps.

Start by adding the liquids – you can use water or unsweetened almond milk or any clean dairy free milk for a creamier base. If you're craving extra richness, add tahini or other healthy fats to the mix to aid in blending.

Next, toss in the fresh greens. Load up your blender with kale, broccoli sprouts, sunflower sprouts, arugula, and collard greens for a hearty dose of heart-healthy nutrients in every gulp. Feel free to swap in your favorite leafy greens if you wish.

To amp up the detoxifying power of your smoothie, sprinkle in a pinch of kelp powder, and don't forget about those optional herbs – horsetail, nettles, and alfalfa – each adds their own nutritional benefits to support your health.

Now, let's add some flavor and sweetness. Toss in a handful of blueberries to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a boost of heart-protective nutrients. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice, and for an extra punch of flavor and antioxidants, don't hesitate to add pomegranate powder to the mix.

Once all the ingredients are in the blender, it's time to blend away until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional water, and give it a taste. If you're craving a touch more sweetness, consider adding a small amount of stevia to suit your palate. You could even add a touch of cinnamon or vanilla.

Once perfectly blended, pour your keto green smoothie into a tall glass or mason jar and enjoy it immediately. Let its fresh, revitalizing flavors wash over you as you indulge in its nourishing benefits for your heart and body.

Are you looking for more dairy free smoothies to help with your hormones?  Try my Savory Green Smoothie. 

How Do These Ingredients Help With The Heart, Hormone Balancing, and Detoxification?

The kale, broccoli sprouts, arugula, collard greens, and sunflower sprouts in this keto green smoothie aid in the body's detoxification processes. This supports liver function to help with hormone balance and heart health as the liver metabolizes hormones to maintain balance.

Lemon juice supplies vitamin C, needed for liver detoxification and reducing inflammation. Pomegranate powder and blueberries add antioxidants which cool inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress.

For enhanced detoxification, kelp, horsetail, nettles, and alfalfa support kidney function and toxin removal, while tahini adds calcium and healthy fats.

Kale, Arugula, and Purple Cabbage

Kale, purple cabbage, and arugula are cruciferous vegetables that contain bioactive compounds such as glucosinolates, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. They are also high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, folate, and vitamin C. Purple cabbage is particularly rich in anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that provide additional cardiovascular benefits.

Known as Brassica vegetables, these greens are packed with phytonutrients like isothiocyanates, which have therapeutic benefits known to reduce the risk of certain cancers, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. Isothiocyanates aid in carcinogen detoxification by stimulating the neutralization and excretion of potential carcinogens and inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells.

These vegetables support the heart by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and lowering cholesterol levels. The fiber content helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Broccoli Sprouts

Broccoli sprouts are rich in glucoraphanin, a precursor to sulforaphane, which benefits the cardiovascular system. Sulforaphane helps modulate estrogen levels and supports detoxification pathways, which indirectly benefit the heart by reducing oxidative stress and promoting detoxification.

Ssulforaphane has also been associated with preventing obesity, reversing insulin resistance, and reducing fatty liver, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Broccoli sprouts also have tumor-preventive properties and anti-inflammatory components that help protect against cardiovascular diseases.

Sunflower Sprouts

Sunflower sprouts are rich in nutrients. As the seeds germinate, there is a decrease in anti-nutrients such as protease inhibitors and lectins which interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption. The sprouting process leads to an increase in free amino acids and simple sugars which makes nutrients readily available for absorption and use.

Sunflower sprouts are rich in minerals such as magnesium which is important for muscle contractions, especially the heart muscle, and is necessary for insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Sprouted seeds contain higher levels of vitamin E compared to unsprouted seeds, and the rise in phenolic compounds during sprouting offers anti-inflammatory properties and helps balance hormones.

Kelp 

Kelp, a type of seaweed, excels in detoxification through a process known as phycoremediation, which neutralizes organic pollutants such as TNT and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This unique ability suggests that kelp may contain additional phytonutrients that aid detoxification beyond being rich in minerals.

Kelp has many heart health benefits due to its rich minerals. It contains calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese, all of which are vital in cardiovascular health. Calcium activates enzymes that help metabolize toxins, while magnesium supports liver function needed for detoxifying the body and maintaining heart health. Potassium helps regulate fluid balance and electrolyte levels essential for proper heart function and blood pressure regulation. Iron is necessary for producing enzymes involved in detoxification pathways helping to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Zinc supports antioxidant enzymes that neutralize free radicals, protecting the heart from oxidative stress. Copper and manganese act as cofactors for enzymes involved in detoxification which also aids the heart.

Kelp is also a rich source of iodine necessary for thyroid function. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism and energy levels. Kelp's anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, further supporting cardiovascular health.

Horsetail, Nettles, and Alfalfa

Horsetail, alfalfa, and nettles are nutrient-rich herbs known for their various health benefits.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Horsetail is rich in flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to possess anti-diabetic properties. These compounds enhance insulin sensitivity, promote glucose uptake, and help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, horsetail is a significant source of silica, a mineral vital for the health of connective tissue. Silica also supports cardiovascular health by promoting the integrity of blood vessels and improving elasticity, which can aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

Alfalfa is a nutrient-dense herb loaded with vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. The saponins and flavonoids in alfalfa enhance insulin secretion and improving insulin sensitivity. The rich vitamin K content supports bone health and indirectly influences hormonal balance by ensuring the proper functioning of calcium metabolism needed for cardiovascular health. Additionally, the antioxidants in alfalfa help reduce oxidative stress, further protecting the heart.

Nettles (Urtica dioica)

Nettles contain lectins, lignans, and phenolic acids which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These help lower inflammation and oxidative stress, key factors in reducing insulin resistance. Nettles are also abundant in minerals such as magnesium and chromium, essential for glucose metabolism and insulin response. Magnesium supports the cardiovascular system by regulating blood pressure and improving endothelial function, while chromium enhances insulin sensitivity, aiding in blood sugar regulation and reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Blueberries

Blueberries are also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, which provide multiple health benefits, especially for the heart and metabolic system. Rich in anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid, blueberries help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are linked to cardiovascular disease. These antioxidants protect blood vessels from damage and improve endothelial function, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

The high fiber content in blueberries helps stabilize blood sugar levels. It slows the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream preventing insulin spikes and support long-term blood sugar regulation. Additionally, fiber supports heart health by aiding in cholesterol management by helping to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Blueberries also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, helps combat oxidative stress and supports the immune system. Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and maintaining bone health, while manganese is involved in bone formation and nutrient metabolism.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has an alkalizing effect once metabolized which helps with hormone regulation and detoxification. High in the antioxidant vitamin C mentioned above, it also helps neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and enhancing detoxification processes. This action supports cardiovascular health by protecting blood vessels from oxidative damage.

Lemon juice stimulates bile production in the liver which is essential for the breakdown and elimination of toxins, particularly in the digestive system. Its natural diuretic properties increase urine production, promoting the elimination of toxins through the urinary tract. By maintaining the body's pH balance, lemon juice optimizes detoxification and supports metabolic functions which benefits the heart.

The citric acid in lemon juice enhances digestion by stimulating stomach acid production necessary for nutrient absorption, including minerals and vitamins necessary for hormone synthesis and regulation. Improved digestion also aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels by promoting efficient nutrient breakdown and absorption, supporting metabolic health and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Pomegranate Powder

Pomegranate powder is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and anthocyanins which neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity protects cells and tissues from damage caused by toxins and pollutants supporting overall cardiovascular health.

Pomegranate powder also contains ellagitannins, which have been shown to support the liver. These compounds promote liver function by aiding the production of detoxification enzymes.

Pomegranate powder is also anti-inflammatory which helps in both detoxification and heart health. By cooling chronic inflammation, pomegranate powder supports insulin sensitivity, better blood sugar control, and reduces the risk of heart disease.

With its antioxidants and bioactive compounds, pomegranate powder improves insulin sensitivity and optimizes glucose metabolism, promoting better blood sugar regulation. This, in turn, supports cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of blood sugar-related heart complications and improving metabolic health.

Where Can You Find This And Other Nutritious And Delicious Recipes Like It?

This smoothie recipe is adapted from Dr Ritamarie’s The Sweet Spot Recipe Collection found in the Unstoppable Health Community. To find more vegan keto recipes…