Green Smoothies!!

Smoothies are an excellent way to enjoy your breakfast.  Also, if you do it the right way, they can be packed with nutrients, low in sugar and calories, and help you stay full until your next meal!  Below I’ve provided some delicious recipes that I use personally, and that can be used for breakfast, between meals or as a meal replacement. 

But first, some nutrition information on some of the ingredients!

Kale:  Kale is very high in vitamin C and vitamin A.  It can also be a significant source of iron, fiber, potassium and B vitamins. 

Banana:  Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6 and potassium. They are also a good source of fiber. 

Almond Milk:  Almond milk is a great alternative to cow’s milk.  It is very low calorie and packed with nutrients.  Once cup contains as much as a gram of fiber and a gram of protein.  Because it is made from almonds, it also contains all of the nutrients that almonds do.  It is high in vitamin E, magnesium, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Flax seed:  Flax seed is a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids and has been shown to have a number of health benefits. 

Agave Nectar:  Agave nectar is a low glycemic index sweetener that is about 1.5 times sweeter than sugar.  Although it has more calories than sugar by volume, you should be able to use less of it because of the added sweetness it provides, making it a good alternative to table sugar.  It is also used as a vegan alternative to honey. 

Kale and Banana Smoothie

1 cup freshly chopped organic kale

1 frozen banana

½ cup original unsweetened almond milk

½ cup water

1 tsp groud flax seed

Agave nectar to taste

Kale and Pineapple Smoothie

1 cup freshly chopped organic kale

1 cup frozen pineapple

½ cup original unsweetened almond milk

½ cup pineapple juice

½ tsp cinnamon

Kale and Mixed Berry Smoothie

1 cup freshly chopped organic kale

1 cup frozen berries (any variety!)

1 cup original unsweetened almond milk

Agave nectar to taste

Enjoy!

Visit www.nhwchiro.com for more health information!!

Sources:

1.  Fleming, Alesha.  Natural Health and Wellness Chiropractic. www.nhwchiro.com, Daytona Beach, FL, 2015.