Wellness Shots: 3 quick recipes for a nutritious boost

Health benefits apple cider vinegar: Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is believed to be more beneficial for gut health due to its probiotic content (Image: Canva)

Feel like you needed a quick health boost? Wellness shots might be just what you're looking for! These little powerhouses are packed with nutrients and can give your body a serious energy boost. These shots are typically small portions of juice or blended concoctions made from fruits, vegetables, herbs, and superfoods and shots are designed to be consumed in a single gulp, providing a quick and concentrated dose of nutrients.

The specific ingredients in a wellness shot will vary depending on the benefits. For example, a shot containing ginger and turmeric may be marketed as an immune booster, while a shot containing beet and carrot may be an energy booster.

Popular types of wellness shots

• Immune-boosting shots: Packed with vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants like turmeric, these shots can help strengthen your immune system and fight off infections.\
• Energy-boosting shots: Containing caffeine, B vitamins, and adaptogens, these shots can provide a natural energy boost without the jitters.
• Gut health shots: Featuring probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes, these shots can support a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion.
• Anti-inflammatory shots: Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds like ginger, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids, these shots can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
• Detoxifying shots: Made with ingredients like lemon, apple cider vinegar, and dandelion root, these shots can help support the liver's detoxification process.

• Nutrient-dense: Wellness shots are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help support your overall health and well-being.
• Immune-boosting: Many wellness shots contain ingredients that have been shown to boost your immune system, such as ginger, turmeric, and citrus fruits.
• Anti-inflammatory: Some ingredients in wellness shots, such as ginger and turmeric, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Digestive aid: Certain fruits and vegetables in wellness shots, such as ginger and lemon, can aid in digestion.
• Energy boost: The natural sugars in fruits and vegetables can provide a quick energy boost.

• Wellness shots are easy to prepare and consume, making them a convenient way to incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine.
• Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these shots offer a concentrated dose of nutrients in a small serving
• Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, improve digestion, or increase energy levels, there's a wellness shot to meet your specific needs.

• When choosing a wellness shot, consider the following factors:
• Ingredients: Look for shots that contain a variety of fruits and vegetables.
• Added sugars: Avoid shots that contain excessive amounts of added sugars.
• Freshness: Opt for shots that are made with fresh, organic ingredients. But don’t stress. If you have powdered turmeric, use fresh ginger to compensate while creating your shots.
• Personal preferences: Choose a shot that appeals to your taste buds.

Immune boosting ginger-turmeric shot

Ingredients:

• 1 inch ginger root, peeled
• 1 inch turmeric root, peeled
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

• Blend: Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. For a smoother texture, you can add a small amount of water to the blender.
• Strain: If you prefer a smoother shot without any pulp or fibre, you can strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This will give you a clear and refreshing liquid that is easy to drink.
• Consume immediately: It is best to consume the ginger-turmeric shot immediately after blending it for maximum freshness and potency. The nutrients and antioxidants in the shot will start working their magic as soon as you drink it.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong green tea, brewed and cooled
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

• Combine all ingredients in a small glass.
• Stir well to ensure the lemon juice and honey are evenly distributed throughout the green tea.
• For a more intense flavor, you can steep the green tea for longer or use a stronger tea bag.
• If you prefer a sweeter shot, you can add more honey or a different sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Once the drink is well-mixed, take a deep breath and enjoy the refreshing and invigorating taste of the green tea and lemon shot.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

• Combine all ingredients in a small glass.
• Stir well and consume immediately.
• For a more flavourful shot, you can add a splash of sparkling water or a squeeze of fresh lime.
• You can also experiment with different sweeteners, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

NOTE: Take only one type of shot per day. Shots should be taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals. They can be made and consumed, stored in bottles in the fridge or made into ice cubes and had the next morning with a cup of warm water.