While on a recent trip to Destin I discovered something about myself: I’m more self-conscious than I expected. I enjoyed several amazing meals—grilled grouper, scallops and other fish—but I never took photos. The idea of pulling a camera out in a crowded restaurant made me hesitate. In hindsight I regret it; the food was fantastic and I have nothing to share from those dinners except a couple of restaurant signs.
This morning I had a simple, comforting breakfast: a green smoothie and oatmeal. I’ve been missing my oatmeal lately, and pairing it with some good additions reminded me why I enjoy it so much.
One ingredient I use regularly is ground flaxseed. Whole flax seeds are small and can pass through you undigested, so grinding them unlocks their nutritional benefits. Ground flaxseed delivers several advantages:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Plant-based omega-3s are heart-healthy; one tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains roughly 1.8 grams of ALA (a plant omega-3).
- Lignans: These plant compounds have antioxidant properties and can act like plant estrogens. Flaxseed contains far more lignans than most other plant foods.
- Fiber: Flaxseed supplies both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports digestion and satiety.
Green Monster!
My smoothie that morning was a tropical mix made with frozen mango, pineapple and peaches. I rely on frozen fruit when fresh fruit is out of season and expensive. I appreciate grocery brands that keep the ingredient list simple—just fruit, no added sugar or preservatives. That simplicity makes it easy to blend a flavorful base for smoothies.
- Amazing Grass Amazing Meal in Pomegranate and Mango
- Fage 0% Greek yogurt — 1/2 cup
- 1/2 cup frozen fruit
- 1/2 cup water
Don’t judge it by appearance. The smoothie has a lightly grainy texture from the greens and fruit, and it tastes like a fresh tropical blend. I’ve tried several wheatgrass or green meal powders, and the Amazing Grass product in pomegranate and mango stands out as much more pleasant than many others I’ve sampled. Overall, a simple, nutritious breakfast that combines fruit, protein and beneficial additions like ground flaxseed.