An attempt to stay healthy and sane during hibernation season
Every year, as chilling temperatures set in and we spend 90% of our time indoors, I start to wonder how long it will be before we all lose our minds. It was a challenge before kids, but now with twin toddlers running around, it’s a true test of our endurance. It usually results in some frantic searching for online travel agents with last minute beach vacations. But then I try to relax and head to the kitchen to find a cheaper, mood-boosting food solution, ideally one that isn’t just chocolate cookies.
Smoothies may not seem to be the obvious answer in the winter but hear me out. They are flexible, low stress, easy and can beat away the winter blues.
Flexible – you can custom design them specifically for the little tummies you are serving
Low stress – pretty much all babies, toddlers and big kids enjoy smoothies because they are fun
Easy – no cooking required, very little prep, make in no time at all
Beating the winter blues – add foods that not only help the immune system but also make us feel happier
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice (we use almond milk)
- 1 banana (as soon as my bananas look past their best I throw them in the freezer to use in smoothies)
- ½ cup frozen blueberries
- ½ cup frozen kale
- ½ cup frozen cauliflower rice
- 1 tbsp honey (only for babies over 12+ months)
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds
I prefer frozen ingredients because I like to make a creamier smoothie, but all of these can be added as-is if your little ones prefer something not as thick and cold.
What it’s good for:
- Antioxidants for the immune system and mood boosting.
- Protein and omegas for growth and development
- Fiber for healthy tummies
So there it is. An easy way to at least try and ward off the winter blues. I can’t claim this will help with all your indoor confinement challenges this winter, but perhaps it will pass 15 minutes a day with your little ones and maybe make everyone feel just a touch better!
By Rebecca Barnard
@thesmall.kitchen
