Juliette Steen | On 11, May 2014

It’s that time of year again. Sneezes, germs and coughs surround us everywhere — on buses, at work, at uni and even at home. You can’t escape them but here is a delicious smoothie recipe that can help you steer clear of those pesky winter colds.

Smoothies are a great way to quickly give your body lots of nutrients. Packing your smoothies with vitamin-rich ingredients can boost your immune system, giving you a strong defence against cold and flues.

This smoothie includes numerous beneficial plant-based cold and flu fighters:

• Ginger for its antiviral and antioxidant properties
• Orange for vitamin C
• Honey and cinnamon for their soothing and warming qualities
• Acai for antioxidants
• Spinach for vitamins A, E and C

Don’t let the colour of this smoothie frighten you. I promise that you won’t be able to taste the spinach!

Immunity-boosting smoothie
Serves 1

Ingredients
1 frozen banana
½ orange, peeled
2 handfuls of spinach or kale
a small knob of ginger (the size depends on how much ginger you like)
2 tsp honey
1 tsp acai powder (optional)
¼ tsp cinnamon
a dash of water

Method
1. Simply blend all the ingredients together and pour into a glass.

Tip: The longer you blend the smoother the texture will be.

Remember, if you feel like you’re coming down with a cold or flu (or you’ve already succumbed to one) be sure to drink lots of water and tea and take time out to rest.