Deliciously Natural Recipes - Green Smoothie

Deliciously Natural Recipes (DNR) is a feature where I share some of my very own recipes & my modified version of recipes.  I strive to use a wide variety of all-natural ingredients because of my food-intolerances & allergies.  The idea is to make the switch back to traditional, home-made foods that are simple to prepare AND healthy.

Since I started working in the Natural Health Industry over 5 years ago, I think the question I get asked most by friends & clients alike is: What do you put in a green smoothie?! Sometimes people ask because they want to start making their own but they are not sure where to start. Other times, they ask me because they are already making smoothies but either they don't like the taste, texture or they just aren't satisfied long enough to help them till their next meal.

Green Smoothies are a balanced & nutrient-dense way to start your day.  They are a perfect way to kick off a workout by ensuring a energy boost & the right kind of fuel to support your body through any kind of physical activity.  Anyone and everyone can benefit from incorporating green smoothies into their daily routine!

Now I'll be honest, I used to be one of those people who would look a green smoothies & think: gross!  Thick green drinks usually don't bring the word tasty to mind.  Imagine my surprised when I first tried a drink & my first thought was - Mmmm!  How can something SO green, taste SO yummy?!  The thing is, when you use the right mix of greens & other tastier things, once they're all blended together, you can't taste the Spinach or Carrots or whatever!

Here is Holistic-Chick's own version for a yummy, filling & healthy Green Smoothie:

- 1-2 cups of spinach or kale (dark leafy greens are best!)
- 1 banana
- 1/2 of an avocado
- 1-2 tbsp of coconut oil or coconut meal 
- 1 cup of liquid - either milk, juice or water - I prefer using pure apple juice or even milk (regular or almond/rice varieties).  If you're using real milk,go for the full fat (3.25%)
- 1 scoop protein powder - either Vegan or Whey depending on your diet. Whey is a good choice for people just getting started with smoothies because of its smoother texture & palatability but there are some quite yummy vegan protein powders out there - Genuine Health Chocolate Vegan Protein is quite decadent!
*If you don't have Protein Powder - you can use Hemp Seeds or Nut Butter (almond, tahini, sunflower, cashew...) but you need a good source of protein in there!
 *optional* you can add a tbsp or 2 of chia seeds (or hemp seeds) in there for a super-food boost. 
Mix the ingredients together & blend thoroughly!  This smoothie has an ideal balance of greens (carbs), healthy fats and protein.  You should always be sure your smoothie has not only fruits & veggies but protein & fats to give you extra energy, to keep you full AND to help lose weight - especially for those who work out, proper balance gives better results!

Delicious, Nutritious, Balanced & Satisfying

BENEFITS of JUICING or GREEN SMOOTHIES

• Detox your body naturally
• Energizes & revitalizes
• Healthier skin, hair & nails
• Improved metabolism
• Aids in proper digestion
•  Reduced cravings

And so much more!  Especially for someone like me who often isn't all that hungry earlier in the morning.  Whip one of these up and you have more than I could ever eat for breakfast, in convenient liquid form.  Chug down a glass or 2 and I'm ready to take on the world!