Spring sunshine always gets me energized to not only spring clean the house but to spring clean my diet as well. Our bodies have their detoxifying organs — the liver, especially. But what typically happens is, our not-so-great eating habits can get the best of us, leaving us feeling sluggish and in need of a recharge. That's why I have started drinking a green smoothie for breakfast every morning, and it's a great way to give my body a much-needed boost for the day. Here's a detox version, full of healthy, naturally detoxifying ingredients.
Now, let's break down the ingredients:
Cilantro has phytonutrients, flavonoids, and active phenolic compounds which aids the body in getting rid of heavy metals by binding to them. Cilantro also has significant anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Green tea has flavonoids (antioxidants) and is the best source of Catechins, which are a class of antioxidants that stop cell damage and fight disease. Green tea can also lower the risk of certain kinds of cancer and help prevent heart disease.
Cucumbers are excellent sources of vitamin C, K, beta-carotene, and molybdenum, according to research. They are also full of phytonutrients that provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits, according to WHFfoods.
Ginger has been proven to help with digestive troubles, but more recent studies have shown that it also has many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Avocados are a vital source of numerous vitamins and minerals including high amounts of potassium, vitamin E and B vitamins. Also, the high-fat content (the right kind) makes it a great companion to other foods containing vitamin A.
Lemon juice is a natural diuretic with excellent cleansing and detox properties. It's high in vitamin C, citric acid, and calcium, all of which give the immune system a boost.
Raw honey has phytonutrients with antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help the boost the body's immune system and fight illness.
Try this recipe, courtesy of Pinterest.
Ingredients
• 1 cup green tea, cooled
• 1 cup of cilantro
• 1 cup organic baby kale (or another baby green)
• 1 cup cucumber
• 1 cup pineapple
• juice of 1 lemon
• One tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 avocado
Directions
Blend all ingredients until smooth
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