THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TRULY GREEN SMOOTHIES

By Lauren Talbot Sommer
 
There is no doubt that an increase in fiber is linked to a decrease in disease– fiber is what essentially keeps things moving along internally, and helps the body literally “push out” toxic waste. Waste is what remains of food after the body has utilized what it can of the nutrients from the food we choose to nourish our bodies with. Unless the body completely and properly breaks down food during digestion, food goes to waste inside the body.

More waste = weight gain = disease.

Fiber is the indigestible component of a plant that cannot be broken down– and remains virtually unchanged during the process of digestion– hence indigestible.

Fiber is actually what provides structure and support to the plant, and also protects it from stressors, which would otherwise damage, oxidize, or steal nutrients. It is mainly found in the outer layers of a plant, and contains no useable nutrients. Although it is not a source of nutrients for the body, fiber helps to build bulk in the stool, and literally helps to sweep out old waste.

All whole plants (in their original form- prior to refining, processing, etc.) contain fiber. They also contain a chockfull of vitamins, minerals, food enzymes*, water, etc.

Green smoothies are one of the top choices for a healthy body, and a perfect breakfast option—especially in these hot summer months.

When we blend up the ingredients of whole plant foods, we consume the ultimate package—a divine concoction of alkalizing and naturally detoxifying greens, in addition to satisfyingly sweet fruit, fiber, and wholesome nourishment—no milk products (or substitutes) necessary. In addition to offering the body a source of nutrients, the act of blending pulverizes the tough plant fibers, making digesting the food easier on the body, for more energy, and better assimilation of nutrients.

When consumed by itself, on an empty stomach, you will find that the fiber is perfectly filling, energizing, nourishing and so simple to make.

Turn back the clock, slim down, and stay cool with this easy recipe:

• 2 large handfuls of organic spinach leaves- A great source of protein, Vitamin A, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium and much more—Keeps bones strong, eyes sharp, skin glowing, and the immunity strong.
• 1 organic celery stalk – celery are rich in vitamins and minerals. They also supports electrolyte balance—essential during workouts.
• ½ bunch of organic fresh parsley (flat or curly)- Thought to have powerful detoxifying properties that pull heavy metals from the blood, and neutralize some toxins. Considered highly anti-inflammatory, parsley is also exceptionally high in Potassium and Vitamin C.
• 1-2 large frozen ripe banana- Packed with Potassium, an electrolyte essential for performance of heart, muscles, and converting sugar to ENERGY! Important for hydration. *Ripen banana until spotty, peel, and store in a Ziploc bag in your freezer. When blended, frozen bananas take on a creamy cool texture, without the ice or any milk product (stay truly raw).
• ½ organic pear, or ½ organic apple of choice (optional)- Apples contain a special phytonutrient that helps to clean the blood of harmful substances. Great for strong bones, teeth, and the heart, it is also a natural source of quick energy, and more!
• 8-16 ounces of spring water (add more for the consistency you prefer)
• Blend all ingredients in your high-powered blender, or Vitamix.

By Lauren Talbot Sommer
 
There is no doubt that an increase in fiber is linked to a decrease in disease– fiber is what essentially keeps things moving along internally, and helps the body literally “push out” toxic waste. Waste is what remains of food after the body has utilized what it can of the nutrients from the food we choose to nourish our bodies with. Unless the body completely and properly breaks down food during digestion, food goes to waste inside the body.

More waste = weight gain = disease.

Fiber is the indigestible component of a plant that cannot be broken down– and remains virtually unchanged during the process of digestion– hence indigestible.

Fiber is actually what provides structure and support to the plant, and also protects it from stressors, which would otherwise damage, oxidize, or steal nutrients. It is mainly found in the outer layers of a plant, and contains no useable nutrients. Although it is not a source of nutrients for the body, fiber helps to build bulk in the stool, and literally helps to sweep out old waste.

All whole plants (in their original form- prior to refining, processing, etc.) contain fiber. They also contain a chockfull of vitamins, minerals, food enzymes*, water, etc.

Green smoothies are one of the top choices for a healthy body, and a perfect breakfast option—especially in these hot summer months.

When we blend up the ingredients of whole plant foods, we consume the ultimate package—a divine concoction of alkalizing and naturally detoxifying greens, in addition to satisfyingly sweet fruit, fiber, and wholesome nourishment—no milk products (or substitutes) necessary. In addition to offering the body a source of nutrients, the act of blending pulverizes the tough plant fibers, making digesting the food easier on the body, for more energy, and better assimilation of nutrients.

When consumed by itself, on an empty stomach, you will find that the fiber is perfectly filling, energizing, nourishing and so simple to make.

Turn back the clock, slim down, and stay cool with this easy recipe:

• 2 large handfuls of organic spinach leaves- A great source of protein, Vitamin A, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium and much more—Keeps bones strong, eyes sharp, skin glowing, and the immunity strong.
• 1 organic celery stalk – celery are rich in vitamins and minerals. They also supports electrolyte balance—essential during workouts.
• ½ bunch of organic fresh parsley (flat or curly)- Thought to have powerful detoxifying properties that pull heavy metals from the blood, and neutralize some toxins. Considered highly anti-inflammatory, parsley is also exceptionally high in Potassium and Vitamin C.
• 1-2 large frozen ripe banana- Packed with Potassium, an electrolyte essential for performance of heart, muscles, and converting sugar to ENERGY! Important for hydration. *Ripen banana until spotty, peel, and store in a Ziploc bag in your freezer. When blended, frozen bananas take on a creamy cool texture, without the ice or any milk product (stay truly raw).
• ½ organic pear, or ½ organic apple of choice (optional)- Apples contain a special phytonutrient that helps to clean the blood of harmful substances. Great for strong bones, teeth, and the heart, it is also a natural source of quick energy, and more!
• 8-16 ounces of spring water (add more for the consistency you prefer)
• Blend all ingredients in your high-powered blender, or Vitamix.