Recipe and photo by Usha Menard
© Usha Menard
Originally from the Punjab, this traditional Indian drink is typically enjoyed at lunch time and as a means of cooling down in hot weather. We enjoy it equally for breakfast and in milder weather, with perhaps less ice.
In addition to the incredible health benefits of the additional ingredients on their own, the beauty of putting Udo's Oil DHA 3·6·9 Blend and fresh turmeric root together in this recipe is that the active ingredient in turmeric (curcumin) is fat-soluble. Recent studies have shown that, in combination with dietary fat, turmeric boosts DHA levels in the brain. That means that making this lassi could – literally – be the smartest thing you could do for yourself (just couldn't resist!). Tip: Some cracked pepper will also help to boost the absorption of the curcumin and fats in the smoothie because of the compound piperine.
The body is made up of trillions of cells. The two essential fatty acids (or EFAs)—omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-6 linoleic acid (LA)—are responsible for vital biological functions in every cell including membrane structure, growth and division, cell-to-cell communication, gene expression, hormone production, receptor function and energy production.
Sufficient EFA levels are critical to the optimal functioning of the brain, liver, kidneys, heart, and all other glands and organs. That's some serious biological business!
The body lacks the enzymes to make both EFAs from other nutrients and must therefore get them from dietary sources. Hence, the name "essential". Exposing fresh EFA omegas to light, oxygen, and heat leads to rapid degradation and rancidity. We solved this problem for you by creating Udo's Oil. For more information, go here.
Serves 2-4 (makes about 4 cups)