Radiance - An Unforgettable Green Smoothie

I love a green smoothie. If I could have a smoothie everyday for breakfast, I probably would. I find it to be an incredibly easy way to fit in lots of antioxidant packed plant foods without sacrificing any of the refreshing deliciousness of a good smoothie. This particular green smoothie is my go-to. If there is protein powder (Sunwarrior Vanilla Pea Protein is my favorite) and basil in the house, I will always add them in. I love a smoothie first thing in the morning or post-workout to cool down and fuel my muscles with the macro & micro nutrients from all the smoothie goodness. The beautiful thing about a smoothie is that there are only guidelines for greatness, no exact measurement of ingredients is perfect to everyone. Please try as many variations as you can until you feel the true radiance of this smoothie. 

Ingredients (and why!)

• 1 cup Dark leafy greens of your choice

Dark leafy greens are the absolute healthiest food on the planet. They will make you feel amazing and provide a vibrant green color to your diet that makes you feel healthier by just looking at it. I always go with spinach as a base since it does not have much flavor but still provides a lot of nutrition!

Spinach- may decrease oxidative stress, improve eye health, and help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Kale - rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, and beta-carotene.

Romaine -it's high in minerals, such as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, and potassium. But low in fiber. A great natural anti-aging green. 

Arugula- Reduces inflammation, protect cells from damage, protection from cancer, and contribute to healthy skin and good vision 

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or 1/4 an Avocado

Greek yogurt adds a certain creaminess to the smoothie, along with a high serving of protein and packed with good bacteria for the gut! Avocado is a good substitute with similar protein and fat content, without emitting the creaminess. 

• 1 Frozen Banana 

A necessity for its creamy and delicious flavor. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, potassium, riboflavin, magnesium, and phosphate

• Handful of Frozen Mango 

The mango adds the tropical flavor to the smoothie while also being rich in protective antioxidants. It may aid digestion, help maintain healthy skin & hair, support heart and eye health.

• Tablespoon of Honey

This little sweetener goes a long way. Especially if using more bitter greens like kale. Honey has anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties to support our health.

• Tablespoon of Flax Seed

I never forget flax seeds in my smoothies. Best known for their anticancer effects, omega-3 content, and extra fiber, they are a must for every smoothie.

• Water or Oat milk and ice

To hydrate the body and bring everything together!

Other additional ingredients to boost the taste, and the nutritional content:

• Walnuts ( Abundant omega-3 fatty acids)
• Hemp Seeds (A complete protein)
• Protein powder (boost of protein) 
• Matcha powder (Extra antioxidants and caffeine boost) Or Maca powder for similar energy boost and superfood benefits
• Cinnamon (Decrease spike from glucose response) 
• Basil (adds a delicious twist with added benefits such as fighting inflammation and antibacterial properties)