Moringa Smoothie with Passion Fruit and Kiwi

With its combination of nutrient-dense ingredients, this delicious and fruity moringa smoothie with passion fruit and kiwi is a nutritious and refreshing treat.

Moringa tree: Common names include moringa, drumstick tree (from the long, slender, triangular seed-pods), and horseradish tree. The moringa tree is cultivated extensively in Southeast Asia, where the leaves and seeds are used as food and for medicinal purposes. The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant. They are such a significant source of calcium, potassium, beta-carotene, and iron that they are used to combat malnutrition and boost food security in developing countries.

Vitamin B₁₂ and moringa: As nutritious as moringa is, be careful of sources claiming that moringa contains vitamin B₁₂. The B₁₂ in moringa is an inactive B₁₂ analog and can cause a vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in the body by blocking the B₁₂ receptors. This means that moringa is not a source of B₁₂, especially for vegans and vegetarians.

Coconut water: Coconut water is an isotonic substance that is easily absorbed and processed by our bodies. This means that coconut water is a good source of liquids for hydration and thirst quenching.  It contains more vitamins and minerals than plain water, with just a trace of fat. Coconut water is obtained from young, fresh coconuts or packaged in Tetra Paks. The coconut water from the brown coconuts that are sold for coconut meat in supermarkets often tastes sour and spoiled. It does not have a taste comparable to that of the coconut water from young coconuts.

Passion fruit: Passion fruit is also known as maracuja. There are numerous varieties of passion fruit available, but the most popular are the brownish-purple ones that look somewhat shriveled when ripe, and the yellowish-green passion fruit. Passion fruit is rich in vitamins C and B, magnesium, and calcium. The seeds are a good source of unsaturated fatty acids.

Kiwi: Fuzzy round kiwis are known for their typical sweet and sour taste and green color. They contain high levels of vitamin C and are low in calories.

Moringa powder: Moringa leaves are often dried and powdered. They are sold as a dietary supplement in capsule form and as loose powder. Keep in mind that taking Moringa oleifera supplements in capsule or powder form will not supply the amount of nutrients that you would receive from the whole leaves. Choose fresh moringa leaves whenever possible. They are often available at Indian markets.

Other fruits: You can substitute any combination of fruits for kiwi and passion fruit. The combinations are only limited by your imagination.