Now that all of the holidays and my birthday are past, I have been feeling that it is time to get back to my healthiest eating routine. Each year, around this time, I go on a sugar fast to clear my system of the inflammation caused by the various cookies, cakes, candies, etc. that I treat myself to from Thanksgiving to Valentine's Day! Following the advice of Dr. Mark Hyman, I have been starting my day with a green smoothie. This particular one was inspired by one of my favorite mocktails (a juice blend of cucumber, mint, and lime), but with a couple of additional vegetables for important minerals, and a green apple for a hint of sweetness. Packed full of phytonutrients, the smoothie is a delicious and healthy way to start your day. Just a Bit Sweet Green Smoothie
1/2 green apple cored, diced, but not peeled (just under the skin is where all the best nutrients lie)
1/2 medium-sized cucumber, peeled and diced
Juice of 1 lime
2 cups of fresh spinach
1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used homemade yogurt that I made with the recipe I shared in last month's newsletter).
You can also use your favorite unsweetened nut milk.
1 bunch fresh mint
1 teaspoon chia or hemp seeds (optional, for a nutritional boost)
Place all of these ingredients in a blender, and blend on high for about two minutes, to make it as smooth as possible. This makes one large serving. It is best consumed right away before it begins to lose some of its vital nutrients. Enjoy!
