If you haven’t tried it already, it may be time to add blackstrap molasses to your pantry. It is a dense mineral and a flavorful source of many nutrients that women need more of, especially iron and calcium.
Many women suffer from decreased energy and slowing metabolism associated with an iron deficiency. Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. Without it, we can feel tired, sluggish and depressed.
Research also shows that many women have trouble consuming enough calcium. This mineral is critical to a plethora of life-sustaining body functions, including muscle contractions, blood clotting, nerve impulses, enzyme activity, bone maintenance and the removal of toxins from the colon. Like iron, calcium deficiency has also been associated with depression.
A mere two teaspoons of blackstrap molasses provides 13 percent of our daily iron requirement and nearly 12 percent of our calcium.
A byproduct of sugar production, blackstrap molasses is antioxidant rich, with a syrupy sweetness and dark flavor perfect for adding depth to a variety of foods. It can be cooked in savory dishes like beans or added to baked goods for that complexity so famous in gingerbread. It also makes a wonderful addition to smoothies: add a spoonful of blackstrap molasses to any morning smoothie recipe for a boost of nutrition and energy. Just make sure to find the blackstrap variety, which is deeper in color, richer in flavor and higher in nutritional benefits than regular molasses. Try this smoothie for a taste of winter:
Gingerbread Smoothie
- 1 frozen banana
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon unsulphured blackstrap molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- Pinch ground nutmeg
- Pinch ground cloves
- Pinch of allspice
- Additions of your choice
Add all ingredients together in a blender and enjoy. For additional nutrition, add vanilla protein powder, pumpkin puree, blueberries or other additions of your choice.
