Green Smoothies

We love green smoothies in our home. It's a great way to sneak in leafy green vegetables. You can't taste it I promise! We have used kale and spinach and both are chocked full of vitamins and minerals. Our society really lacks in the consumption of leafy green vegetables. It's not just the children who push their greens to the side of the plate. You know who you are. So if your child, or you, needs more whole foods in their diet then try this yummy treat.

My daughter hogs the green smoothie every time.

Green Smoothie

8- 10oz Coconut kefir {almond milk, rice milk, coconut milk, or kefir}

1/2 frozen banana

1/4 cup frozen blueberries

1/2 cup spinach or kale {about a handful}

3-4 tablespoons vanilla hemp protein powder {or a protein powder of your choice}

2 teaspoons maca powder {optional}

1 tablespoon ground flax seeds {optional}

Blend till smooth.  The smoothie will be on the purple side and not green because of the blueberries. (Most blenders will blend the spinach smooth.)

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Kale- Very high in antioxidants, beta carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin, and reasonably rich in calcium.  

Spinach- Spinach has a high nutritional value and is extremely rich in antioxidants, especially when fresh, steamed, or quickly boiled. It is a rich source of vitamin A (and especially high in lutein), vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, folate, betaine, iron, vitamin B₂, calcium, potassium, vitamin B₆, folic acid, copper, protein, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. Recently, opioid peptides called rubiscolins have also been found in spinach.

Kefir- A cultured, enzyme-rich food with friendly micro-organisms that helps balance your good bacteria. More nutritious and therapeutic than yogurt, it has complete protein, essential minerals, and valuable B vitamins. Great for those who have been on antibiotics. 

Hemp Protein Powder- Easy to digest vegetarian protein source. Contains large amounts of zinc, iron, and magnesium. Hemp's fiber is 90% insoluble and 10% soluable.

Maca Powder- Supports the immune system and adrenal function. Reduces chronic fatigue, regulates and supports the endocrine system. Rich in proteins, starches, and important minerals, like iron, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorous. It contains trace minerals (including iodine), B vitamins, linoleic and oleic oils (essential fatty acids), and 18 amino acids, including 7 of the 9 essential amino acids.

Flax Seeds- anti-inflammatory, helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. High is fiber and contains omega-3.