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1. Smoothies are the best BREAKFAST

The word ‘breakfast’ is derived from literally ‘breaking’ a ‘fast’. A ‘fast’ is a period where you are not consuming any food or calories — like overnight when you are sleeping.  

After a (hopefully) prolonged period of rest, our bodies’ energy stores are depleted, and we wake up ready to refuel for the upcoming day. A typical North American breakfast is very carbohydrate-heavy: think toasts, muffins, cereal, and bagels. Suppose the first thing we consume in the morning is a bagel. In that case, our body responds to that high sugar and carbohydrate content by rapidly increasing insulin levels to start bringing in all that energy (glucose) from the blood into storage and muscle. But what goes up must come down, right?!

Yup, bring on the midday crash and fatigue where you reach for your second cup of coffee. This is the rebound effect of consuming high carbohydrate and sugary breakfasts.

Let’s rewind — what happens when we substitute toast and jam for a Revive Superfoods Smoothie to break our overnight fast?

Revive Superfood smoothies are a mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and fat, which our body takes longer to digest and convert into fuel. This leads to a more sustained energy burst throughout the morning and avoiding that midday crash. Think of it as being similar to fueling a car with premium gasoline that is much more energy-efficient and gives you a lot more mileage in the long run versus regular gasoline. 

Not a huge “breakfast” person? No worries! Smoothies are a quick and fun way to increase your nutrient uptake any time of day!

2. Smoothies keep you hydrated

Adding 2-3 cups of water (500-750ml) as your base liquid to your Revive Superfoods smoothies is a great way to start hydrating for the day ahead. On average, most adults, especially those who are active, are not drinking enough fluids regularly. When you drink a smoothie every day, you are adding to your fluid intake. Staying hydrated is beneficial for our skin, digestive system, and overall body function.

Add in some coconut water to the Mango & Papaya smoothie as your liquid base to enhance the coconut flavor and extra hydration!

3. Smoothies are packed with FRUITS & VEGETABLES

Let’s be honest – most of us are not achieving our target of 6-8 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. We may throw some vegetables in with our dinner, but ultimately, the average standard North American diet is very LOW in fruits and vegetables. Revive Superfoods smoothies are a great way of sneaking more vegetables into your diet. Try the Coffee & Cacao smoothie, which contains cauliflower, or the Blueberry & Cacao smoothie, which is packed with kale! #CruciferousSuperpower. No, but seriously, cruciferous vegetables like kale and broccoli are nutrient-dense vegetables that are high in micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, b-vitamins, and iron. Talk about superfoods!!

4. Smoothies are pumped with SUPERFOODS & ANTIOXIDANTS

Smoothies are a great way of boosting your immune, digestive, and skin health with superfoods and antioxidants. The Mango & Pineapple smoothie contains the superfood camu camu powder, which is high in vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the collagen in our skin, teeth enamel, and immune function.  

5. Smoothies are CONVENIENT

Revive Superfoods smoothies are mess-free and take less than 5-minutes to prepare! If you are in a rush to get to work or stressed about an upcoming workday, a Revive Superfoods smoothies cup is a nutrient-dense option at your fingertips — peel, pour, blend and enjoy! One of the biggest obstacles that people say get in the way of reaching their health goals is TIME. Having ready-to-go smoothies on hand makes it easy to make better choices for your health. My biggest tip for making your life even easier —  wash or rinse your blender immediately after use. Otherwise, you’ll waste time scrubbing away later in the day. 

6. Smoothies are ECONOMICAL

Purchasing take-out food is one of the easiest ways to tack on extra expenses throughout the month. Unfortunately, those muffins, bagels, sandwiches to-go start to add up. The approximate price of a restaurant or to-go breakfast is $7-25 Canadian (1), which may end up costing you hundreds of dollars every single month.

Revive Superfoods smoothies start at $7.99 (CAD), $6.99 (USD) per cup — your bank account will thank you! 

7. Frozen produce in smoothies help reduce FOOD WASTE

Contrary to popular belief, fresh is not always best when it comes to your produce. Frozen fruits and vegetables contain just as many nutrients and have a much longer shelf life than fresh produce. You may have had good intentions of using that package of spinach in your fridge. Unfortunately, it went bad and wilted before you even had the chance to eat it! Food waste is most commonly in the form of fruits and vegetables and contributes to a significant environmental burden. 

With Revive Superfoods, every cup is pre-portioned, minimizing food waste. Plus, all our smoothies are vegan-friendly — bonus!  

References:

1. Stats Canada – Detailed food spending, Canada, regions and provinces… 

Written by Sophie Pollon-MacLeod (@dr.sophiepm). Sophie is a Toronto-based Naturopathic Doctor who provides an individualized all-encompassing full-body approach to supporting her patients in weight loss, performance, and pain management

For most people going to bed and actually falling asleep are two very different things. Are you sick of tossing and turning all night? Do you desperately want to get 8 hours of restful ZZZ’s? Believe it or not, your daily habits, as well as the foods you consume, can help you get a goodnight’s rest so you can conquer your day. 

Do you often find yourself unable to settle your mind before bed or regularly waking up during the night? Our busy lifestyles can cause stress, worry and make us restless. And more often than not, it’s our habits during the day that makes it harder at night to settle the mind and wind down. Interrupting tasks throughout the day to check social media, responding to emails after work hours, and fuelling our bodies with coffee to stay alert and productive during the day is causing us harm when it comes to rest our body needs.

1. Develop a Bedtime Routine

Developing a relaxing bedtime ritual without digital distractions can help prepare your mind for a more restful sleep. Bear with me while I suggest something a little bit crazy. NO ELECTRONICS 1 HOUR BEFORE BED – yes, I said it. That means no Netflix, texting, or social media. Instead, use this time to journal, meditate, or read. If reading isn’t your thing, dim the lights and listen to relaxing music or an audiobook.

2. Cut Back on Caffeine

Even the most relaxing bedtime routine isn’t working? Well, pouring cup after cup of coffee throughout the day and eating foods high in artificial sweeteners can cause your system to still be in overdrive. If that’s the case, cut back on caffeine (rule: no coffee after 12 pm) and try getting your energy from more sustainable food sources throughout the day.

3. Sleep Better Superfoods

You’ve probably heard of a lot of supplements to help you get to sleep, but what if I told you that you could find high doses of these minerals, hormones, and amino acids in the food you eat. For starters, magnesium is a mineral that helps your mind and body relax. It also helps regulate melatonin production, which is often called the “sleep hormone” – pretty self-explanatory. And lastly, tryptophan is an essential amino acid that converts to a chemical called serotonin – which calms us down and helps us sleep. Revive Superfoods wants to help! We recommend you add the following superfoods into your diet to help you catch those ZZZ’s:

  

1. Almonds: Almonds are pretty chill. High in potassium and B vitamins, our muscles and nervous system want to relax. Add shaved almonds to your oats, eat them as a midday snack or try adding some nut butter into your smoothie!
2. Walnuts: Walnuts before bed might be the next best sleeping pill. Walnuts have a surprisingly high level of melatonin – the “sleep hormone.” (1)  Walnuts also have a higher level of antioxidants than any other common nut. Instead of having melatonin supplements to help you sleep, try eating a few walnuts before bed for even greater health benefits.
3. Bananas: Do you eat bananas throughout the day as a quick, easy, and filling snack? Maybe consider eating them as a bedtime snack too! They are high in potassium and magnesium, which helps your body’s muscles to relax. They also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin – which helps with sleeping and digestion. Strawberry & Banana smoothie, anyone?
4. Cherries: This stone fruit is a great way to recalibrate your sleep pattern! If you are feeling a bit off, adding cherries to your diet can help the body release melatonin, which is a healthy way to promote a good sleep cycle. Try pure cherry juice for that extra kick, or try our Dark Chocolate & Cherry smoothie for double the effects!
5. Kale & Spinach: Don’t forget to eat your greens! These leafy greens are packed with minerals that most people are deficient in – especially magnesium.
6. Chia Seeds: Sprinkle them onto a salad, soak them in oats or blend them into a smoothie – this seed can do it all. High in fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals and antioxidants, chia seeds are small but mighty! Magnesium-dense chia seeds will relax the body and have you ready for a snooze. Are you tired yet? (2) 

If you have any personal questions or need more information, please consult your healthcare professional. 

Written By Sara Prodanos (@sara.prooo). Sara is a Personal Trainer and Physical & Health Educator that is passionate about building strength from the inside out and doing things that make you feel good! 

REFERENCES: 

• 1. Healthline – How Melatonin Can Help You Sleep and Feel Better
• 2. Healthline – Chia Seeds 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
• Huffington Post – Tossing and Turning? Six Superfoods for Better Sleep
• Well and Good – 8 Superfoods for Better Sleep
• Healthline – 10 Magnesium-Rich Foods That Are Super Healthy

Human beings have studied the mysteries of the universe for centuries. We have found meaning in stars, moons, and planets to create a path that guides us towards our light.

We’ve matched your zodiac sign with a superfood smoothie to help bring balance and clarity into your life. Let us know what you think by tagging us in your Instagram story with a screenshot of your zodiac smoothie!

Aries: Mango & Papaya

You’re bold, unapologetic, and you say it how it is. Some people are uncomfortable with how blunt you are – but it’s what makes you unique.

Your match made in heaven is Mango & Papaya smoothie.  A mango smoothie that tastes like royalty and makes you feel rejuvenated inside and out.

Taurus: Coffee & Cacao

You may be stubborn, but it’s because you’re incredibly patient. Your patience inspires others to do the same. With a practical and grounded heart, you stand with resilience in the face of conflict.

Your perfect match is the Coffee & Cacao smoothie. You love the finer things in life, and hate being rushed. Sip on some of that sweet mocha smoothie to start your day smoothly.

Gemini: Banana & Cacao

You’re incredibly adaptable and your curiosity towards the world makes you love the on-the-go lifestyle. Your life is filled with adventure because you’d try anything once.

Your best match is the Banana & Cacao smoothie for a sweet start to your day. This chocolate superfood smoothie will gradually wake you up so you can enjoy your morning.

Cancer: Cherry & Acai

You think with your heart more than your head sometimes. You’re genuine, kind, and feel everything around the world so deeply. You lend your heart out often because you truly love helping people.

Your sweet match is the Cherry & Acai. This sweet and tart smoothie will bring you closer to your heart so you can stay centered all day.

Leo: Dragonfruit & Strawberry

You’re fiercely loyal to your loved ones and have one of the biggest hearts to share. You effortlessly remind people of their inner child and to always find time for play.

Your match is the Dragonfruit & Strawberry smoothie. You’re not afraid to show up with a little more spunk and love being the center of attention. This dragonfruit superfood smoothie will help you feel in control of your day.

Virgo: Green Apple & Moringa

You’re often misunderstood because you tend to be on the quieter side. Everyone knows how dedicated you are to the things you love. You inspire others to be more humble.

It’s no secret that your match is Green Apple & Moringa. Your dedication is inspiring, but it’s important to relax too. This low sugar green smoothie will help you stay focused to do what’s best for you.

Libra: Strawberry & Banana

You strive for balance in your life. You love being social and your cleverness never fails to make people laugh. You’re the king/queen of compromise, and always wants what’s best for others.

Your match is the Strawberry & Banana smoothie. Though you seek balance, it’s easy for you to get your head wrapped up in other things. This strawberry smoothie will keep you calm and collected.

Scorpio: Apple & Black Tea

You’re an incredibly hard worker that will never sacrifice independence and passion. It’s what makes you stand out. You never fail to impress others and light up the room with your energy.

Your perfect match is the Apple & Black Tea smoothie. In order to show up right, you need a little spice in your life. This chai smoothie will do just the thing to start your day with a spark.

Sagittarius: Blueberry & Cacao

You’re shameless, proud, and adventurous. Maybe even a little rebellious. Your optimism and excitement for life is contagious to anyone in your life.

Your fiery match is the Blueberry & Cacao smoothie. You’re always on-the-go and always down for an adventure. This chocolate blueberry smoothie will help you stay centered so you remember to stay true to yourself.

Aquarius: Apple & Matcha (Jamba x Revive Superfoods)

You’re calm and energetic at the same time. You radiate positive energy that inspires others to be themselves. You can easily find a way to connect with others.

Your match is the Apple & Matcha smoothie! This matcha smoothie will give you a pep in your step, while staying calm, cool and collected.

Capricorn: Pineapple & Coconut

You may seem easy-going, but your ambition and persistence is admirable to everyone around you. You’re dedication is unmatched, but it’s also important to relax once in a while.

Your best match is the Pineapple & Coconut smoothie. This coconut superfood smoothie will give you a smooth start to your morning. Don’t forget to be patient with yourself.

Pisces: Blueberry & Spirulina

As a water sign, you feel emotions deeply. Your love for the arts like music help you to connect with your inner self. You feel your emotions more often than you’d like to admit.

Your smoothie match is the Blueberry & Spirulina smoothie. Though your emotions may seem overwhelming and blu at times, this blue spirulina smoothie will help you stay grounded throughout your day.

Adding these superfood smoothies to your everyday life will help you feel that much more in control of your day. The ingredients from mother earth will keep you grounded, to facilitate a healthy flow to guide you throughout your day.