I always tell my clients, “A green smoothie will change your life.”

Green smoothies are a fun way to get all the nutrients and minerals you need for the day in one easy-to-digest drink. Not only are they so good for your body, your cells, your mood and your metabolism; they are uber fun to make.

There is no right or wrong way when it comes to kickin’ it in the kitchen and making a smoothie. Follow these simple steps to making a smoothie and you will boost your energy, rev up your metabolism and feel satisfied with every sip.

The Good Old Greens

In the smoothie recipe above, I suggest kale but you can use 1-2 cups of any greens such as spinach, mixed greens, swiss chard or lettuce. Feel free to add some medicinal fresh herbs such as parsley (a great source of natural iron), cilantro, mint or basil. You can also add celery or cucumber (both amazing for shedding excess water weight).

To Fruit or Not to Fruit?

I added a banana to this recipe, but you can also try adding 1/2 green apple, berries, grapes or any fruit that you desire. If you are on anti-candida diet, I suggest that you don’t combine fruit with your green smoothie and add vanilla extract or stevia to sweeten your green smoothie (if needed). Another great option for adding creaminess and sweetness to any smoothie is using 1/2 an avocado.

Nuts, Seeds & Uber Healthy Fats

When I create any smoothie, I always suggest adding at least 1 tablespoon of healthy fat. You can add chia, flax, coconut oil, flax oil or as seen above in this recipe hemps seeds. All of these foods are superfoods, which mean they give you tons of energy, protein, minerals and they have  medicinal benefits as well.

The Milk

I use dairy-free milks such as almond, coconut, flax, hemp or rice milk. I prefer unsweetened as the sweetened options are very high in sugar. You can also use coconut water or plain water. If you need some extra sweetness, try adding stevia, raw honey or vanilla extract. If you like your smoothies to have a little kick you  can even add cayenne or hot sauce.

Adding extras!

The cool part about making smoothies, is having fun and adding something extra each time to make it super special.

My favorite extras are the following:

• shredded coconut 
• goji berries
• raw cacao nibs
• extra spices such as cinnamon, pumpkin spice or alcohol-free flavorings (such as peppermint)

Making the Magic

Add all the ingredients to your high-powered blender – I use a Vitamix. Make sure all the ingredients are blended. Add a 1/2 cup of ice if you desire your smoothie to be chilled.

If you are always on the go, try making your green smoothie the night before, so you have it ready for the next morning.

Quick – Easy – Fun – Healthy!

By Rachel Feldman – Health Coach & Detox Specialist 

For more information on my clean eating programs, detox programs or how to go grain-free or gluten-free with ease, contact me at www.rachelswellness.com