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We’re two weeks into the new year, and I just realised that I had not made any new year’s resolutions. Have you guys made any and how does that usually work out for you? I think I might just stick to not having any this year, although eating healthier is always something to strive for, especially when the weather is as bleak as it was this week. It has been nothing but grey skies, the wind and cold rain. I refuse to let that dampen my mood, that is why I make myself this mango and turmeric smoothie in the mornings. It not only comes with anti inflammatory properties but it is also delicious.

There are many things that you can eat or drink this time of the year to stay healthy but brightly coloured smoothies should be on your list. They will not only cheer you up during those grey winter days, but they can also be incredibly healthy if you sneak in the right super-foods. This mango smoothie contains both turmeric and cardamom. Turmeric comes with a vast range of health benefits. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties and is a strong antioxidant. Sadly its primary ingredient curcumin is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, which is where black pepper comes in handy. It contains piperine that enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%.

There are two things you should keep in mind when it comes to turmeric. The first is that it has a strong flavour and if you use too much of it in your food or drink might end up tasting bitter. I tend to use it with mango because that fruit goes well with its taste due to being very sweet. You can use both fresh or ground turmeric. The second thing is important when you use fresh turmeric. Be careful when peeling or cutting it since it stains – a lot. If you own a bright cutting board that is dear to you, then keep that little root as far away from it as you possibly can. I learned that the hard way.

Admittedly, I am adding cardamom mainly for its taste, but it’s more than just a flavour. For hundreds of years, it has been a wide spread belief that cardamom is great for fighting infections and this has even been tested and verified. If you never tried cardamom or turmeric before then, you should give them a chance. There is only one thing you should keep in mind, turmeric is strong in taste, and if you use too much of it in your food or drink might end up with a bitter flavour. I tend to use it with mango because that fruit goes well with its taste due to being very sweet.