Nearly every morning, my breakfast consists of a green smoothie. Most of you are probably familiar with the classic fruit smoothies, thanks to places like Tropical Smoothie, Smoothie King, Starbucks and even Wawa; but green smoothies are a bit different. These not only consist of your choice of blended fruits, but also include one or more varieties of leafy greens. I'm talking spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, arugula, collards... Any green you want! Sounds a little strange but, don’t get me wrong – green smoothies can be just as delicious and their benefits far outweigh the usually sugar-laden and high-calorie varieties purchased from your nearby eatery.
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Let’s delve into that further – for me personally, the benefits I get from drinking a green smoothie is (for lack of a better phrase) a “clean” feeling; it helps wake me up without having to use caffeine; and, it clears my mind of all the “brain-fog” that tends to settle overnight. Plus, I get a generous helping of fresh fruits, vegetables and protein – a complete, balanced meal I can take with me on the go or sip casually at my desk.
· Promotion of good digestion – In general, liquids are easier to digest, resulting in less bloating and indigestion. By blending the fruits and vegetables, they are broken down into smaller particles so our bodies can better access the nutrients without causing excess strain on our stomachs. The added dose of fiber also helps sweep clean the colon of built-up toxins and wastes, enhancing regularity.
· Helping the body stay hydrated - Hydration is so important for keeping our energy levels up, for good brain and muscular functions, to help the immune system, and to help get rid of any toxins and waste in the body. The water or other fluids added to smoothies and from the break-down of the produce can equate to 16 oz. of tasty hydration instantly.
· Encouraging possible weight loss – Depending on the types of produce used, green smoothies can be a very low-calorie meal. The high water and fiber content promote satiety that can last well up to the lunch hour and due to the versatility of ingredients with different resulting flavors, you’re less likely to become bored. Over time, green smoothies are also helpful in reducing your cravings for sugar, salt and other processed foods which, in turn, prevents diet sabotage.
· Improving energy, clarity of mind and promoting external beauty – With the multitude of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in leafy greens, as well as fruits and other vegetables your body will be receiving what it needs to function more efficiently. Along with this efficiency come the added benefits of clearer skin, shinier hair and an overall enhancement in your energy levels.
So, without further ado, I present to you this morning’s green smoothie:
2 clementines
1/2 banana
1 Tbsp. chia seeds
2 Tbsp. protein powder (currently using Trader Joe's vanilla soy powder)
1 heaping handful fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup tropical green GoodBelly probiotic juice drink (*see note below)
1/2 cup coconut water
1/2 cup spring water
Directions:
The number one rule for blending a good green smoothie is… BLEND THE FRUIT FIRST! Then add the greens to the juice/pulp mixture. Otherwise, your greens will not puree well and you’ll likely end up with a green leaf stuck up your straw! Eww J
Here’s what I did: Blend the clementines and banana with the chia seeds and Good Belly drink until smooth. Add in the protein powder, spinach and coconut water. Blend until smooth, adding additional water or liquids until the desired consistency is attained. Final product: sweet taste with very minimal undertone flavors of “green”.
I found this in a refrigerated section of Whole Foods Grocery near the yogurt. I’m always up for trying new things, so I thought I’d give it a shot. It’s advertised as having 20 billion live and active probiotic cultures (FYI: probiotics are the healthy bacteria found in the digestive tract). GoodBelly came in several different flavors and I opted for the Tropical Green, since I knew I was going to be adding it to my smoothies. This variety contains a blend of spinach, spirulina, chlorella, parsley, alfalfa grass, and oat grass. It’s vegan, without any dairy or soy, and thanks to the pear, banana and mango purees, tastes like juice. It’s hard to say what effects it’s had on me since this was my first time trying it, but I’ll let you know if I start experiencing anything “different” by the time I get to the bottom of the carton! J
Has anyone else ever tried a green smoothie? If so, what’s your favorite recipe? If not, have I helped encouraged you to try one?
***Don’t forget to attend our GLC class tomorrow (January 3, 2012) Nutrition 101
at GAIM starting at 5:30 PM! Check-in begins at 5 PM.***
Cheers,
GLC
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