Banish the blues with happy food

Written by Robin Glowa
Tuesday, 19 July 2011 23:00

“I doubt if there is among us a more useful citizen than the one who holds the secret of banishing gloom, of making tears give way to laughter, of supplanting desolation and despair with hope and courage, for hope and courage always go with a light heart.”

—Franklin Delano Roosevelt

At one time or another, everyone gets the blues. The constant ebb and flow of life presents many challenges, some more severe than others. The simple day-to-day frustrations of dreary weather or inattentive drivers, or the more serious concerns of a topsy-turvy economy are all catalysts for moodiness.

Life traumas such as divorce or the death of a family member can test the coping skills of even the strongest and most positive individuals. It can be extremely difficult to rise above feelings of loss, confusion, anger, disappointment and pain, and focus on all there is to be grateful for. But without the sharp intensity of pain, we scarcely could experience the sweeping exhilaration of joyful times.

When we are lacking in motivation, energy or enthusiasm due to emotional strain, we often forget to feed the body with healthy, restorative nutrients. The body will respond well to seasonal foods that provide delicious flavor as well as vitamins and minerals for life-enhancing strength.

Blueberries are a fantastic seasonal food filled with blues-lifting sweetness and a powerful array of healthful benefits. Locally available in July, fresh blueberries are low in calories and offer a stunning selection of protective attributes for the body. Blueberries neutralize free-radical damage and can help eliminate cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, heart disease, cancer and hemorrhoids. Blueberries also improve night vision and lower the risk of macular degeneration.

These richly colored, full flavored berries offer excellent protection for the brain and improve its functions. Blueberries contain soluble and insoluble fiber, and can help reduce inflammation in the digestive system as well as relieving diarrhea and constipation.

Lift your spirits with this delicious smoothie recipe, and remember pain and joy are part of preparing a delicious life.

Robin Glowa, HHC, AADP, is a food and wellness enthusiast who earned her certification in holistic health counseling from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and Columbia University Teachers College.

She specializes in teaching healthy cooking classes for children and adults, as well as cooking presentations and wellness workshops for many local organizations.

For more information go to theconsciouscook.net, call 203-393-1037, or http://confessionsofaconsciouscook.blogspot.com.

Spirited blueberry smoothie

2 cups frozen blueberries (wash and dry fresh berries, and freeze them in a single layer on a cookie sheet)
1 cup organic apple juice or low fat organic milk or soy milk
1 ripe banana
3 tablespoons organic honey
1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt or organic yogurt of your choice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
a few mint leaves, washed, dried and torn in half
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a blender. Pour into glasses and garnish with a mint leaf. Serves four.