I had planned to make March my “makeover Month.” A retooled exercise regimen, healthier eating, fewer cocktails. And that’s still the plan with the “slight” hitch of a stress fracture in my left knee. All impact exercise is out, including any more than minimal walking. Swimming yes, but now I need to find a pool. I’m also going to be fitted for a biodynamic knee brace that I’ll have to wear for the next 6 weeks. (It will not be appearing in any fashion posts, even as a prop!) So…I will be retooling my exercise regimen, just not as expected. And healthier eating and fewer cocktails are going to be non-negotiable.

I’m kicking off my “new and improved” lifestyle with a Smoothie recipe that includes nonfat Greek yogurt since my Orthopedist is encouraging me to embrace (some) dairy again, along with the Calcium/Vitamin D supplements I already take.

This recipe also includes Maca Powder, a newly discovered nutritional wonder — at least for me. It’s been cultivated as a vegetable crop in the Andes for over 3000 years!  Maca Root has a higher calcium level than milk and is rich in Vitamin C and Iron. It’s also believed to balance hormones (studies link it to alleviating menopausal symptoms), improve your immune system, and increase energy, stamina, focus, and sexual energy (!). A word of caution: if you have Thyroid issues or are pregnant/breastfeeding you should consult your doctor before taking.

Hope you’ll give this recipe a try one morning soon. Let me know if you do!

Spring Smoothie Recipe (@ 350 calories)

1 cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk (my favorite is So Delicious)

1/2 cup Nonfat Greek Yogurt (Fage is my one and only)

5 chunks frozen organic pineapple

5 chunks frozen organic mango

5 chunks frozen organic banana (I pre-slice and freeze my own every couple of days)

1-2 tbsp of Chia/Flaxseed mix

1/2 tsp Organic Maca Powder (I get mine at GNC.)

Tried recipe out at the cabin this morning but with 1/2 cup of organic strawberries and blueberries (instead of pineapple and mango). Delish! (just 10 calories more)

All photos by MP Allegaert