It’s Mental Health Month, and we are honoring it with this Berry and Beet Popsicle. There’s no denying that our diet plays a role in supporting the function of our brain. In one study, even adding ONE extra serving of fruit and vegetables made a difference. Participants rated having more energy, curiosity, creativity, and motivation. They felt more engaged and purposeful in their lives overall—a greater sense of flourishing.
Blog post contribution by Jadin Fields, Fontbonne Dietetic Intern
Berry and Beet Popsicles: Brain Food with Fun
The rich jewel toned beet is full of antioxidants called betalains. These components are responsible for lowering the risk inflammatory associated conditions related to our brains and hearts.
The benefits from beets and berries also include a good dose of gut-supporting fiber. Mental health largely relies on the health of our gut health, and our gut bugs prefer fiber! Beets are rich in nitrates which have been show to improve blood flow to the brain and muscles and lower blood pressure.
Our “good mood food” popsicles are also playful. And, what adult (or kid) couldn’t use a bit more fun in their life?!
Our Short-Cut Ingredient | Pre-Cooked Beets
If you’ve ever worked with beets, you’d know they’re messy! Many brands, such as Love Beets, are conveniently pre-prepared the beets saving you in recipe time. Love Beets has strategically packaged its items to eliminate the anticipated hassle of preparing a beet. We hope you enjoy this recipe and share pictures of its success once you get the popsicles frozen and ready for consumption!
Check out our other summer popsicle treats: Brekkie Berry Popsicles and DIY Fudge Popsicles!
Berry and Beet Popsicles
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 c. orange juice
- 2/3 c. strawberry kefir milk (or yogurt or milk)
- 2 c. halved strawberries
- 2 medium pre-cooked beets
- 2 T. honey
- 1 t. vanilla
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in your blend and blend until creamy consistency.
- Pour into 6 traditional-sized popsicle molds.
- Freeze for 4-6 hours.
- To enjoy, run under hot water until popsicle can easily pop out!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one bar
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 11.8 g
- Sodium: 31.8 mg
- Fat: 0.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18.7 g
- Fiber: 2.7 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0.8 mg