Green smoothies

Smoothies are a great way to start your day, have a fresh energy drink or a snack. They are easy to make and enjoyable to drink. Most combinations of fruits, berries and water will work. The most popular fruit used in smoothies is banana since it helps to create a smooth and creamy texture. Add a cup or two of fresh greens and you’ll make your smoothie even more nutritious. Greens contain an abundance of minerals and chlorophyll while fruits are rich in vitamins. Any kind of greens will work: spinach, kale, Swiss chard, parsley, cilantro, etc. Experiment for yourself and find the flavor that you like best. Since smoothies are quick and delicious it's an appealing way to increase your greens consumption and, if you have children, you'll find that they enjoy them too. Over time, smoothie drinkers typically experience a strengthened immune system and increased energy. An added bonus is that they also help to shed extra pounds!
If you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of raw green smoothies, read the book “Green for Life” by Victora Boutenko (www.rawfamily.com)


Basic smoothie recipe:
12 oz. of water
2 bananas
1 cup of chopped Granny Smith apples
3 cups of baby spinach


Preparation: combine all the ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Yields 3.5 cups of smoothie. Keeps in a fridge up to 3 days, but it’s best when consumed freshly made.

Note: If you wish, you can add some superfoods to smoothies. My favorite superfoods for smoothies are goji berries, bee pollen, spirulina, chlorella and blue-green algae.


Popular smoothie combinations:

1. Water, bananas, strawberry, spinach
2. Water, bananas, apple, parsley
3. Water, mango, kale
4. Water, bananas, pears, romaine lettuce
5. Water, bananas, pineapple, mixed greens

I hope you enjoy them and create your own because the variations are endless!