So for
about the last month, I’ve been incorporating green smoothies into my morning
routine. Not only are they actually absolutely delicious, they make you feel
amazing! I can say without a doubt that my skin has never looked better. My
energy levels are sky high in the mornings (much to the dismay and confusion of
some of my coworker’s).
Now, those of your already on board with green smoothies, get excited! This recipe is a tropical take on how to get your greens in a glass. But I know there are some of you for whom the very idea of downing a green drink first thing in the morning has your stomach turning and face squinched in disgust. All I can say is, give it a try! Look at the pros and cons: What’s the worst that could happen? You absolutely hate it and pour it down the drain. Bummer, but that’s maybe two bucks wasted. The best? You find yourself actually enjoying something that is FANTASTIC for you! You feel amazing, your skin glows and you have tons of energy. At least that was my thinking when I first tried them out.
Now, those of your already on board with green smoothies, get excited! This recipe is a tropical take on how to get your greens in a glass. But I know there are some of you for whom the very idea of downing a green drink first thing in the morning has your stomach turning and face squinched in disgust. All I can say is, give it a try! Look at the pros and cons: What’s the worst that could happen? You absolutely hate it and pour it down the drain. Bummer, but that’s maybe two bucks wasted. The best? You find yourself actually enjoying something that is FANTASTIC for you! You feel amazing, your skin glows and you have tons of energy. At least that was my thinking when I first tried them out.
I got
hooked after watching Kimberly Snyder make her Glowing Green Smoothie (YouTube link here). One
look at her shiny hair and radiant skin and you want to be doing whatever it is
she is doing. Clearly it is working!
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A breakdown
of the benefits
Spinach and romaine lettuce – The list is long my friends. It’s high in fiber, vitamin K and A, rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants (like lutein) that neutralize free radicals; it’s anti-inflammatory and it helps regulate blood sugar and strengthen bones. And the list goes on. Click here for more.
Avocado– It’s not only creamy and delicious, it’s a super food! Along with omega 3’s that boost brain function and cardiovascular health, they are a great source of potassium (more than twice as much as a banana!), vitamin C, B-vitamins and folic acid. Their fiber keeps you full, helps you absorb more nutrients while digesting.
Lime juice – Helps your liver flush out toxins, gets your digestive system moving (diuretic) and gives you a dose of vitamin C.
Kiwi – This little sucker has more vitamin C than an orange! Helps strengthen your immune system, promotes cell repair (better skin), and helps us deal with stress better!
Banana – A dose of potassium and B-vitamins! To keep your energy up and muscles moving.
Mango – Contains cancer-fighting antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat. High in fiber. A good source of potassium, vitamin-B6, and vitamin A, C and E.
Water – Hydration. You just spent 7-8 hours not drinking anything. Give your body some liquids!
_____________________________________________________________________________Spinach and romaine lettuce – The list is long my friends. It’s high in fiber, vitamin K and A, rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants (like lutein) that neutralize free radicals; it’s anti-inflammatory and it helps regulate blood sugar and strengthen bones. And the list goes on. Click here for more.
Avocado– It’s not only creamy and delicious, it’s a super food! Along with omega 3’s that boost brain function and cardiovascular health, they are a great source of potassium (more than twice as much as a banana!), vitamin C, B-vitamins and folic acid. Their fiber keeps you full, helps you absorb more nutrients while digesting.
Lime juice – Helps your liver flush out toxins, gets your digestive system moving (diuretic) and gives you a dose of vitamin C.
Kiwi – This little sucker has more vitamin C than an orange! Helps strengthen your immune system, promotes cell repair (better skin), and helps us deal with stress better!
Banana – A dose of potassium and B-vitamins! To keep your energy up and muscles moving.
Mango – Contains cancer-fighting antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat. High in fiber. A good source of potassium, vitamin-B6, and vitamin A, C and E.
Water – Hydration. You just spent 7-8 hours not drinking anything. Give your body some liquids!
Smoothie
tips:
· On
a budget? Buy frozen spinach! So, so much cheaper and it keep for ages.
· New
to green smoothies? Start with more fruit and less greens. Slowly add more. Like many good things in life (beer, wine), you may find it’s an acquired
taste. But one totally WORTH acquiring!
· Peel
and freeze your bananas for an even creamier smoothie
· Still
too grassy? Citrus cuts that flavor. Add more lime or lemon juice and fresh
orange, grapefruit or tangerines to help balance the taste.
· Still
need the kick that coffee gives you? Try using chilled green tea, which will
give you some
caffeine with a ton of antioxidants.
caffeine with a ton of antioxidants.
