Pina Colada Popsicles
“Do you like pina coladas?! And getting caught in the rain!!!”
Sorry, I can never resist a good 70s song.
These nourishing and refreshing popsicles are soooo good and sweet. I wanted something healthy to snack on during the hot days of summer. Most store-bought popsicles have way too much sugar and other preservatives that I just don’t want - and can’t - put in my body.
So I thought I’d try my hand at making my own.
These are quick to whip up in the blender and so yummy. They really are like a non-alcoholic version of a pina colada.
I’ve also packed them with nourishing ingredients.
Collagen Powder. Collagen is a complete and bioavailable protein. Protein helps to build and sustain muscle. It is a macro-nutrient, meaning, we can’t survive without protein. And if you are ill, you require greater amounts of protein to heal your body. We also require more protein as we age.
Pineapple. This tropical fruit is packed with enzymes. Bromelian is a type of enzyme that is known to reduce pain and inflammation and has even been shown to interfere with tumour cells and slow blood clotting.
Banana. Bananas are full of potassium which make them an electrolyte booster. They add creaminess to any smoothie or, in this case, popsicle recipe.
Coconut Milk. This high fat milk is an incredible super food. It is a delicious alternative to cow’s milk and adds incredible flavour to smoothies, curries and desserts. It is high in saturated fat which is required to make our hormones. Saturated fat has been vilified in years past but the truth is, if we didn’t have any saturated fat in our diets, we would cease to make proper amounts of hormones. This is why some women who go on vegan diets are at risk of losing their periods. Coconuts are one of the best sources of lauric acid. Roughly 50 percent of the fat in coconuts is lauric acid. This type of fat has antibacterial and antiviral activities. According to recent studies, lauric acid is a protective type of fatty acid that has not been linked to negative changes in cholesterol levels and even seems to support heart health. Coconut milk is also known to balance electrolytes, improve digestion, prevent ulcers and reduce inflammation. They are truly a miracle food.
Cinnamon. This warming spice adds incredible flavour to baked goods, exotic foods, hot cereal AND popsicles!!! Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants and has been shown to improve sensitivity to insulin. Along with being anti-viral and a potential cancer preventative, this herb is incredibly versatile and delicious.
Honey. Although the pineapple provides plenty of sweetness, honey offers a particular taste to the popsicles that make them really yummy. Only a tablespoon or two is needed. Raw honey is wonderful for people who have allergies. Try to get locally sourced honey as it can help to alleviate symptoms of pollen allergies. It is thought to work like homeopathics. By ingesting local honey regularly, you train your immune system to be less sensitive to the pollen in your environment. Honey is also a great substitute for refined sugar.
PREP TIME TOTAL TIME SERVINGS
10 MINUTES 15 MINUTES 6 POPSICLES
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
1/3 of a fresh pineapple, cut into chunks Blend all ingredients in a blender and pour into popsicle molds.
1 can of full fat coconut milk Freeze for at least 4 hours and enjoy!
1 banana
2 scoops of Collagen Powder
1 tsp of cinnamon
**Optional: 1 - 2 tbsp of raw honey