Almonds can help prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol, reduce cancer risk, prevent weight gain, and may even help fight diabetes and Alzheimer’s.  They are rich in vitamin E and the B-complex groups of vitamins including riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, as well as an amazing source of manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.  Cacao powder contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant compound, anthocyanidin and epicatechins.  These antioxodants can prevent changes in platelets that might produce blood clots, hardening of the arteries and may interfere with the development of cancer.  It is also a great source of sulfur, magnesium and iron.  Coconut nectar is a 35 on the glycemic index and will not cause a dangerous spike in blood sugar.

Almond Milk is a plant milk produced by soaking almonds and grinding them in water. The almond is a species of tree native to the Middle East and South Asia, mostly we are familiar with almonds as the edible seeds of this tree. Almonds are powerhouses of nutrition, containing monounsaturated fats that lower LDL cholesterol and are protective against cardiovascular disease. Almonds are rich in biotin, and contain large amounts of Vitamin E, Manganese, Copper, Vitamin B2, phosphorus, magnesium, and molybdenum. Your Reading the Smoothie Ingredients Guide Health Benefits and Facts.

Cacao is the dried and fully fermented fatty seed of Theobroma cacao. Cacao is a powerful superfood that has centuries of recorded traditional and medicinal use. It is high in antioxidants, iron and fiber, and contains the unique nutrition theobromine, a mild stimulant that some believe can treat depression. It may cause the brain to produce more of a neurotransmitter called anandamide which some people say is why chocoholism exists.

Coconut nectar is the sap of the coconut tree, much like maple syrup coconut nectar is coconut syrup. The coconut tree is a member of the family Arecaceae. It is the only accepted species in the genus Cocos. Coconut nectar contains some minerals including iron, zinc, calcium and potassium, along with some short chain fatty acids, polyphenols and antioxidants that may also provide some health benefits. Due to the sugar content, coconut nectar should be consumed in moderation.

Coconut oil is an oil made of coconuts. The coconut tree is a member of the family Arecaceae. It is the only accepted species in the genus Cocos. Coconuts are the definition of “good fat”, with a super high fat content including lauric acid.

Vanilla is a flavor derived from orchids of the genus Vanilla. It contains compounds unique to vanilla – vanillic acid and vanillin which have strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional cultures have long used it to stimulate the brain and senses.

Sea salt is a mineral substance composed primarily of sodium chloride, derived from seawater. Salt provides sodium, which is absolutely essential for cell function and human life itself. The average American diet contains far too much salt, making this ingredient a good one to avoid if you are uncertain how much you are getting in your food. Over-intake of sodium is a cause of many health problems, including cardiovascular disease. Sea salt contains other crucial trace minerals and is a healthy food consumed in moderation.