Green Smoothies!

Get a healthy start to your day with an amazing green smoothie! You can get your daily dose of greens with a smoothie like what I have every morning. And here is the best part; it doesn't have to be green! You can mix and match with seasonal fruits and veggies. You can add chia seeds, cinnamon, or a protein powder. Here is some info courtesy Wiki and Whfoods.com on the fruits and veggies that I typically use and why: 

Collard greens: good sources of vitamin C, K,soluble fiber, and contain multiple nutrients with potent anticancer properties, such as diindolylmethane and sulforaphane.Researchers at the University of California at Berkeley have recently discovered that 3,3'-diindolylmethane in Brassica vegetables such as collard greens is a potent modulator of the innate immune response system with potent antiviral, antibacterial and anticancer activity.

Parsley: Parsley is a source of antioxidants (especially luteolin), folic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It also is a great way to flush out excess fluid from the body, thus supporting kidney function. relief from joint pain. The herb has anti-inflammatory properties and relieves joint pain.
Celery:  The sodium found in celery helps the absorption of vitamins. It is an important food source of conventional antioxidant nutrients, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and manganese. But its "claim to fame" in terms of antioxidant nutrients may very well be its phytonutrients. Many of these phytonutrients fall into the category of phenolic antioxidants and have been shown to provide anti-inflammatory benefits and in the digestive tract itself. 

Cucumber: Cucumbers are now known to contain lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol—three lignans that have a strong history of research in connection with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease as well as several cancer types, including breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers. It is also great for your skin! 

Carrots: Carrots are famously rich in beta carotene, which the body processes into vitamin A. Nutrients in carrots have been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Carrots are famous for protecting vision, especially night vision. Beta carotene, of which carrots are one of the riches sources, is linked to a reduced risk of post-menopausal breast cancer as well as cancers of the bladder, cervix, prostate, colon, lung, larynx and esophagus.

Strawberries: Strawberries are high in vitamin C, antioxidants and manganese. They are also good sources of potassium, folate, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin K, omega-3 fatty acid, magnesium and copper. The nutrients in strawberries help protect against rheumatoid arthritis and have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Banana: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and fiber. They are good sources of vitamins B6, C and antioxidants. Studies suggest that bananas may prevent high blood pressure and decrease risk of kidney cancer. 

Yogurt: Get your dose of protein! The pro-bacteria in yogurt balance the microflora in your gut, which can aid with digestion as well as keep you regular. It is high levels of calcium, magnesium, and potassium contribute to the blood pressure-lowering effect. It also will help you feel full longer. 

I usually juice the veggies and add the juice in a blender with berries and yogurt. Here is my recipe: 

8oz vegetable juice 

1 banana

4-6 frozen strawberries

1/2 cup non-fat plain yogurt

Smoothies also help with weight-loss, increases energy and focus. It also helps balance your PH levels and can clear up your skin! Start today and feel better today!