I thought I'd share with you this recipe for a basic 'green' smoothie. I have this most mornings after a pint of warm water and fresh lemon juice, as I know it's packed with all the proteins and antioxidants I need to start the day right.
Cacao - Has the highest level of antioxidants than any other natural food in the world. Filled with magnesium which provides vital electrolytes to our system and sulphur for maintaining the health of our skin, hair, nails, liver and pancreas. It's potent flavour is great for adding to treats as a chocolatey substitute.
Spinach - Your body cannot completely break down the nutrients in raw spinach, so it's best eaten steamed or blended into a juice/smoothie. This vegetable is not only great for your skin, but also a good digestive aid - reducing constipation and flushing out toxins from the colon. Lovely to hear first thing, but good to know.
Banana - Not just for monkeys. This fruit also acts as a prebiotic, activating growth of friendly bacteria in our guts, and also produces digestive enzymes to help us absorb more nutrients from our food.
Coconut water - Packed with electrolytes, this stuff is a fail safe way to hydrate you through the day.
Chia Seeds - Rich in omega-3's and protein, these little seeds are a great addition to juices, smoothies, salads and soups. They act like a sponge and absorb the liquid around them, making a jelly like consistency.
Spirulina - This blue-green microalgae is made up of 60-70% of COMPLETE protein, none of that artificial rubbish. It contains all 8 essential amino acids and 10 additional ones that also support good health. Note to self: Don't be put off by the smell, it's virtually tasteless.
Maca powder - Grown in the mountains of Peru, this powder assists with common issue that surround women during that certain time of the month. It helps with cramps, mood swings, anxiety and hot flashes. At the same time, it also does a pretty good job of balancing hormones and increasing fertility.
Flaxseed - Another supplement filled with omega-3's which are essential for skin and tissue repair. These essential fatty acids are brilliant for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne - healing the skin from inflammation.
Ingredients:
1 banana
1 tsp chia seeds
2 tsp cacao powder
1 tsp spirulina
1 tsp maca powder
1 dsp unsweetened dessicated coconut
2 tsp ground flaxseed
1 small cup of coconut water
1 small cup milk (almond, rice, coconut - try and avoid soy)
Handful of spinach
2 cubes of ice
Pop it all into your blender until smooth and enjoy!
A x
