The benefits of incorporating a green smoothie (one that incorporates fresh leafy greens) into your day are amazing! Within a few days of this challenge you will notice your skin improve, you will get a better night’s sleep, and that brain fog will begin to lift.
A daily green smoothie challenge will focus your attention on nutrition and help you increase the quantities of fresh fruit/vegetables consumed, providing more natural energy. That makes it much easier to ditch the caffeine and sugar. You will also be improving your intake macro and micro nutrients.
Green smoothies are an effective way to get those raw greens each day. Just be aware of the potential for too many fruit sugars. You might like to start with primarily fruit smoothies, and as taste-buds change, the ratio of leafy greens to fruit can increase. Rotate the leafy greens so you are not consuming the same plant group each day. Add other vegetables such as cucumber, celery, broccoli etc. as you get more adventurous.
Here are 5 different smoothies to help you find some inspiration to create your own variations. The key to a long-term green smoothie habit is to vary the ingredients and look forward to a particular flavor combination. A bit like the fact that not all sandwiches taste the same. Also, when we know the rules, we learn how to break them.
Shopping list for your 5 day Green Smoothie Challenge
The ingredients you will need for the 5 day Green Smoothie Challenge are:
- 1 liter non-dairy milk of your choice
- 1 liter Coconut water
- At least 6 cups Leafy Greens (Cos Lettuce, Spinach, Rocket, Kale, Chinese Cabbage)
- 2 Bananas
- 1 Mango
- 1 Avocado
- 1/2 cup seedless Green Grapes
- 1/2 cup Blueberries
- Your choice of ground Flax, Hemp of Chia seeds
- Coconut Flakes
Tips:
Substitute a pear instead of the apple.
Blend the cabbage with the green tea before adding the other ingredients.
Tips:
This is the number 1 top tip for anyone who struggles with the taste of raw Kale! Adding dried Coconut to the green smoothie will counter the bitterness of the Kale.
Substitute strawberries for the mango for a lower sugar option.
Fresh Coriander/Cilantro is a great addition to this green smoothie.
Tips:
Skip the banana for a refreshing pick-me-up drink during the day.
Fresh Mint is a great addition to this green smoothie.
Tips:
Reduce the liquid content to make the base of a smoothie bowl.
Substitute baby beet leaves if available.
Fresh Basil is a great addition to this green smoothie.
Tips:
Instead of protein powder you can add your choice of nut butter.
