By Full of healthy goodness
The amount of vitamins and minerals in your green smoothie all depends on the what ingredients you put in. Note that more fruits and vegetables are higher in Vitamin A and C. They are also good sources of potassium, calcium, and iron. Since the entire fruit or vegetable is used in smoothies, you get the added bonus of fiber in your drink.
Glowing Skin
Go to ingredients of green smoothies such as kale and spinach contain antioxidants that are vital for normal skin cell development and provide a healthy skin tone. Vitamin C found in broccoli, guava, kiwi, and strawberry is also an antioxidant that helps blemishes heal properly and produce collagen that strengthens the skin.
Fast and easy way to consume your veggies
Most people enjoy fruits but may not enjoy eating their greens as much so getting the proper amount of vegetables in our system on a daily basis can be challenging. Green smoothies are an easier and more delicious alternative. If there’s too much of a veggie taste, include a banana, kiwi, apple, or mango to improve the flavor. As you go along, mixing up the combinations will keep your taste buds excited and your body healthier.
Energy booster
Even though fruits are good source of energy, when eaten alone may not provide enough zing to get you through the day (the sugars they contain are quickly metabolized). Green smoothies contain a balanced sugar content, thanks to the higher quantity of veggies.
Feel fuller with less calories
Due to the having more water and fiber in them, drinking a green smoothie makes you feel like you consumed a whole meal. They also help stave off hunger and cravings, if you’re watching your weight or trying to lose pounds.
Easy to digest
Since they have been through the blender, green smoothies are easy on the digestive system. The body doesn’t have to work as hard to break down the food in order to extract the nutrients it needs.
If you’re new to green smoothies, a good foundation to start with is including spinach, lettuce, kale, collard greens, and/or broccoli. Or any other leafy greens that your taste buds can handle. To add flavor and a touch of sweetness, toss in some apples, kiwis, pears, avocados, bananas, and/or mango. Some add herbs or spices for a little kick. Instead of water, it can be substituted with coconut water or your choice of milk. Is the concoction too thick? Add a few ice cubes and blend some more. The combinations are only limited by our imagination and sometimes our palate.
Smoothie Tips:
- Put the liquid in first. Mix liquids first and then add your greens, followed by your chunks of fruit.
- Start slow. If your blender has multiple speeds, start it on slow to help break up big pieces of fruit. For blenders with multiple function buttons, pulse a few times and then switch to puree.
- Thicken with ice. If ever you add too much water, milk etc — just add ice!
- Bonus Ingredient: Greek Yogurt! #thankmelater
Recipe: Lean, Mean & Green Smoothies
Main Green: Kale
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (fat free, coconut, almond, soy – you’re pick!)
- 1 cup slightly thawed frozen strawberries
- 1 cup fully frozen pineapple
- 2 cups kale
- Greek yogurt (recommended berry flavor)
Directions
- Combine the milk and kale first.
- Slowly add the frozen strawberries and pineapple in a blender and puree until smooth
- Add Greek yogurt and continue to puree
- Add ice or water if necessary to create desire consistency.
Main Green: Spinach
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk (fat free, coconut, almond, soy – you’re pick!)
- 2 cups stemmed and chopped kale or spinach
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pineapple (if frozen you can omit the ice)
- 1 ripe banana, chopped
Directions
- Combine the coconut milk, ½ cup water, the kale first
- Slowly add piece of pineapple, and banana in a blender and puree until smooth
- Add ice or water if necessary to create desire consistency.
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