KEEPING IT GREEN

I’ve decided to keep this green theme going, but this time with a healthy twist. ;)

I, (like the majority of people) have decided that this new year I want to focus on exercising regularly, eating healthy and staying in shape.  I can’t say I’ve stuck to the exercising, but what I can say is that I’ve been eating healthier, and I’ve changed my bad “not eating breakfast” habit.

For a while, I got into the routine of waking up in the morning with just enough time to get ready and go out the door. I knew I couldn’t keep doing that…so I thought, “what could I make in the morning that is quick and healthy,” and that’s how I came across this wonderful green smoothie!

It takes me about 10 minutes to make, it tastes delicious, and it contains some of the healthiest fruits and vegetables!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cup of spinach
• 1 1/2 cup of kale leaves
• 5 strawberries
• 1 orange (peeled and segmented)
• 1/2 of a banana
• 4 baby carrots
• 1/3 cup of plain Greek yogurt (or you could replace the Greek yogurt with almond milk or water, depending on your preference)

Once you’ve cut the strawberries, bananas, and carrots, place all ingredients into the blender and puree until smooth.

Voila! Your dose of fruits and veggies have now been incorporated into you daily diet.

I use this smoothie as a breakfast meal replacement, I get all of the nutrients I need and the energy I want so early in the morning.  But now, on to the health facts…

Here are some fun facts about the fruits and veggies used in this smoothie. I learned a few new things, maybe you will too!

Did you know?

• Studies have shown that consumption of green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach may slow the age-related decline in brain function.
• Spinach contains Vitamins A and C and is an antioxidant, which helps keeping cholesterol from oxidizing.
• Kale contains beta-carotene which is one of the antioxidants believed by many nutrition experts to be a major player in the battle against cancer, heart disease, and other age-related chronic diseases.
• Strawberries act as an anti-inflamitory in the same way that Aspirin and Ibuprofen do (minus the unwanted side affects that you may face when taking aspirin or ibuprofen).
• Orange skin contains a natural oil which is excellent for moisturizing your skin and keeping it young. Oranges also contain an antioxidant (Beta-carotene) that keeps skin cells from damaging.
• The potassium found in bananas not only keep bones strong but also help lower blood pressure, which helps against atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
• Carrots help clean your teeth after meals.  They act as natural abrasives that help eliminate dirt from teeth and gums. They also trigger saliva production, which helps to scrub away stains on your teeth.

So there you have it. Try it out and let us know what you think.

And if you’ve ever made a green smoothie or ANYTHING healthy that you’d like to share, comment below with your recipe. :) You never know, your recipe may be featured in our next health post!

Happy smoothie making!