Mind-Gut Connection Smoothie (Brain-Boosting + Gut-Loving)

As a Melbourne-based gut health expert and naturopath, I thought long and hard about what to include in this brain-boosting, gut-hugging smoothie. It had to tick all the boxes:

Nutritionally balanced
Supportive of mood and cognition
Great for digestion
Low in sugar
And, of course — taste good!

The result? A creamy, refreshing blend featuring the medicinal mushroom Lion’s Mane, antioxidant-rich berries, plant-based omega-3s, collagen, and greens.

Why This Smoothie Supports Your Gut and Brain

Ingredient	Benefit
Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)	This medicinal mushroom has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Its nootropic effects may support: Memory and focus Mood and motivation Nerve regeneration (via NGF — nerve growth factor)
Blueberries	Rich in proanthocyanins and antioxidants that: Protect brain cells from oxidative damage Support microbial diversity Lower inflammation
Walnuts + Chia Seeds	Excellent sources of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) a plant-based omega-3 that: Supports brain development and cognition Reduces inflammation Feeds gut microbes
Collagen (Grass-Fed or Marine)	Collagen provides key amino acids like glycine and proline that: Help restore gut lining integrity May reduce gut permeability (“leaky gut”) Support healthy joints and skin (Vegan? Swap for your favourite plant-based gut-friendly protein powder.)
Spinach + Zucchini	Wholefood sources of fibre, magnesium and folate, which: Support bowel regularity Reduce brain fog and fatigue Feed short-chain fatty acid production in the gut

Nutrition Per Serve

Nutrient	Approximate Amount
Protein	~10g (with collagen)
Fibre	~6g
Plant Ingredients	7+

This recipe is low sugar, gluten free, dairy free, FODMAP friendly, optional vegan friendly.

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Mind-Gut Connection Smoothie

Makes: 1 serve

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 -1 tsp Lion's Mane powder
1/2-3/4 C blueberries (fresh or frozen)
1 Tbsp walnuts
1/2 Tbsp chia seeds
10g Unflavoured Collagen Powder (or swap for gut-friendly vegan protein powder)
1 small handful baby spinach
3-5 cm chunk zucchini
1 C water

Method

Place all ingredients in a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour into your favourite glass and enjoy immediately.

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