By Sonja Smiljanic, BA, NNCP
Prep time: 5 mins
Serves: 1
1/2 cup coconut water
5 ice cubes
1 cup raw baby spinach
1/2 green apple peeled and chopped
1/4 small avocado (for a bit of smoothness)
Freshly grated ginger to taste (1/2 to 1″ is recommended)
1/4 freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp. chia seeds
Optional: unflavoured protein powder of choice and a dollop of cultured coconut yogurt to top
When we think of detoxification sometimes we can think it has to be an aggressive act we take to “cleanse” ourselves from all things “bad” but in reality detoxification can be as gentle as you wish; simple acts to promote natural balance in the body. We can do this by eliminating or taking breaks from foods that are hard on the system (think processed meals, excess sugar, caffeine, and alcohol as a few examples) and by establishing regular routines that incorporate healthful practices. One way to gently promote detoxification is to consume raw nutrient-rich foods that offer protective and health-supportive properties, to stay hydrated, and to have regular bowel movements. Smoothies can be a wonderful addition to your menu and can – with the right ingredients – help with all of these areas.
Welcome Spring with this beautiful, bright, delicious green smoothie! This one has a bit of a zing to it and you’re sure to feel a pop of energy after drinking it! Ingredients like raw spinach and lemon juice aid with alkalizing the body, while the healthy fats from the avocado and chia seeds promote cell health. Both actions protect the body from damage and degeneration. The chia also helps with maintaining regular bowel movements, which are vital to a healthy and regular detoxification process. Aside from all of this, incorporating smoothies into your menu a few days a week is a great way to add some extra hydration and to keep you cool during those upcoming hot summer days!
Pro tip: remember that blending food breaks down the fibre and allows for a faster release of natural sugar into the body. You can add protein (plant-based protein powders made from pea and hemp protein are a nice option as they tend to be allergy friendly and offer a good balance of amino acids) or a bit of extra fat (1 tsp – 1 tbsp. of your favourite nut or seed butter OR 1 tsp. – 1 tbsp. thick canned coconut milk) to help slow the release of sugar and to keep you satiated longer.
We hope you enjoy!
