Kale Pineapple Mango Smoothie for Autism

Ingredients

Coconut Water 1 1/4 cup

Kale 1 handful

Pineapple 3/4 cup frozen

Mango 3/4 cup frozen

Hemp Seeds 1 tbsp

Spirulina 1/8 tsp

MTC Oil/Coconut Oil, a bit

Vitamin D, a drop

This smoothie is a great healthy green smoothie for parents to make for kids with autism that need a healthy snack and some extra greens. This variation of the Kale Pineapple Mango Smoothie (KPM) is made with additional ingredients that support autism. Although diet may not cure your child’s autism, introducing autism friendly foods like this smoothie will improve their nutrition and help manage their symptoms

Studies have shown that small changes in food habits can result in significant changes in behavior, emotion, and cognitive skills in autistic children. At the same time, studies have also found that autistic and ASD children prefer energy-dense, nutrient-deficient foods and reject fruits, vegetables. So, introducing smoothies into their diet can be a fantastic way to get them to eat nutrient dense foods and increase their consumption of fruits, vegetables and other superfoods that they might not otherwise eat.

Like the classic KPM, this smoothie is refreshing and it’s got a light, sweet taste of pineapple and mango and with just enough of greens. The additional ingredients add fantastic nutritional benefits without killing the flavor.

The following ingredients are added specifically for their nutritional benefits.

Hemp Seeds - Studies have shown that low carbohydrates, high healthy fat, high protein diets can be beneficial for children with Autism. Hemp seeds fit into this category. They are high in fat and protein, but low in carbohydrates. In addition, Hemp seeds have a great nutritional profile: They are a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids and protein makes up 25% of hemp seeds’ calories. They are also high in omega-3’s and have a good ratio of omega-6 to omega-3. They contain soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which are necessary for healthy digestion. And they are also a great source of other vital nutrients, including magnesium, thiamin, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, and Vitamin E.

Spirulina - Spirulina is among the world’s most popular supplement and comes from algae that grows in fresh or salt water. It’s generally dark green in color and great for adding some additional green color to your smoothie. Spirulina is added to this smoothie for because of it’s amazing detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, and high protein content. Spirulina has long been used to help with detoxing of heavy metals which are thought to contribute to autism. Although Spirulina powder is an amazing supplement and excellent for detoxification, it does have a very strong taste and smell. So, add just a little bit into your smoothie to not ruin the taste of your smoothie.

MTC Oil or Coconut Oil - Studies have shown that MCT oil and a ketogenic diet may help manage brain related conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism. Coconut oil is high in healthy fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) which are medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides. Due to their shorter length, MCTs are digested faster than longer-chain fatty acids found in many other foods and thus are more quickly turned into energy and used to fuel the brain. Studies have also found that MTC oil may help regulate blood sugar and promote weight loss.

Vitamin D - Vitamin D is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our bodies make. Studies show that Vitamin D promotes healthy development, helps regulate mood and depression, and promotes a healthy immune system. It’s critical for children’s development and since Vitamin D is primarily made when your skin is exposed to the sunlight, it should be supplemented if your child does not get outside enough. Some foods also contains Vitamin D although Fruits and vegetables don’t contain significant amounts best to supplement this in your smoothie to boost the Vitamin D content.

How to Make this Smoothie

To make this smoothie, start by adding the Coconut Water. Then throw in around a cup of Kale. Next add the Frozen Pineapple and Mango. Then add the Hemp Seeds, MTC Oil and a little bit of Spirulina to really make that green color pop. Blend for a bit, starting on a lower speed then working up to higher speeds to break the frozen fruits. Blend until all ingredients are mixed and you have a smooth, icy consistency. Taste and add additional ingredients to taste or to achieve your desired consistency. Add some ice if desired. When serving add a drop or two of Vitamin D into your cup.

Makes about two 10oz servings

Optional Super Boosts:

A spoonful of unflavored or vanilla organic plant protein powder to add some protein

Use a bit less mango to reduce the sugar and carbohydrate content