You hear a lot about antioxidants but you don’t hear very often what they actually are.  Antioxidants are molecules that prevent the oxidation of other molecules.  This is important because oxidation can produce free radicals, and too many free radicals can set off a chain reaction that may damage cells.  How good antioxidants are for you is in debate (as is almost every health related thing it seems) but keeping the oxidative state in your body balanced is important, if nothing else.  The body likes homeostasis.  I decided to call this smoothie the Antioxidant Power Smoothie because blueberries, pomegranates and cocoa are all fairly high in antioxidants.  Surprisingly this was my first time adding chocolate to a smoothie, probably because I generally don’t like having chocolate for breakfast.  But this smoothie turned out really yummy and wasn’t overpoweringly chocolate-y.  Scientists can argue about how good this smoothie may or may not be for you, but your taste buds will all agree that it’s delicious!

Anti-oxidant Power Smoothie:

• 1 cup blueberries
• ¼ cup pomegranate juice
• ¼ cup vanilla or blueberry Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 5-6 ice cubes
• Pinch of salt
• Sugar to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Combine the first 6 ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth.  Add the salt, sugar, and nutmeg (if using) and pulse until well combined.  Pour into a tall glass and enjoy!