Universal Living Sept 2013 Volume 1 Issue 1 | Page 11

learn what foods you should definitely buy organic and what isn’t so critical. Mix things up a bit... use coconut water to increase your electrolytes. Consider almond, coconut or hemp milk too. These liquids actually offer extra benefits to your smoothies besides contributing to a great taste, Looking for a creamy texture? Just add either 1/2 banana, mango or avocado or a ½ cup of cashews. Too thick? Just add a little more water. Green Smoothies are filling for sure! Chew, not chug your smoothie. The digestive enzymes in your saliva helps to make this nutritious per-chewed drink even more beneficial and digestible. Amp up your smoothie even more with spirulina! This queen of sea veggies, a unique algae, increases energy, endurance and mental ability. If that isn’t enough, it absorbs toxins more efficiently than most food, and contains nine essential amino acids (complete protein!) in a balanced and easily digested form. Check this out: spirulina in your Green Smoothie provides your body three times more complete protein than any other plant proteins. Add flavor enhancers that add vitamins and minerals that heal: maca (B12, iron, calcium, libido boost), lucuma (naturally sweet, adds potassium, magnesium and phosphorus), ashwagandha (antioxidant, adaptogen, great for men), shatavari (calcium, zinc, excellent for women), carob (potassium, calcium), mesquite (sweet, carmely flavor that provides calcium, magnesium, potassium), matcha green tea (antioxidant), vanilla bean (an antioxidant, antidepressant and aphrodisiac), cinnamon (blood sugar regulator), ginger (enhances digestion), turmeric (a super anti-inflammatory), cayenne (a great gut cleaner). make a super smoothie by just adding a drop or two! Check out my website: http://www.mydoterra.com/livefitllc/ So, just a quart a day will definitely keep the doc away! Your green smoothie will stabilize blood-sugar, increase energy, lift your mood and improve concentration levels throughout the rest your day. What's even better is those who have been chronically ill or have nutrient deficiencies, or who simply want to bring their level of health from great to REALLY great, a basic smoothie can be changed into a SUPER smoothie. Green Smoothie 101: Use a high powered blender (it doesn't have to be expensive, but it's best if it's high-powered). Ingredients: 3 cups of greens (start with just spinach, then get a little daring later -1 PLUS…. 7 ways for you veterans out there to SUPER CHARGE your Green Smoothies: Add at least 1 tablespoon of healthy fats. Not only will your heart love you back, but fats soften the taste of the greens and add a creamy texture to your smoothie. Fats to consider: coconut (meat, oil, butter), avocado, nuts (almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame). Speaking of seeds.. Just 1 tablespoon of flax, hemp, or chia seeds adds soluble and insoluble fiber and protein. These ingredients are high in omega-3 fatty acids and contain potent cancerfighting properties. Love chocolate? Let’s hear it for raw cacao.. the king of super foods, for even more antioxidants, phytonutrients plus magnesium. Cacao makes your Green Smoothie seriously yummy. Need more protein? Blend in a scoop or 2 of vegan protein so you get the 20-30 grams you need per smoothie meal. Stellar after a hard workout. Sept/Oct 2013 Issue—Page 11 banana - 1 apple (without core) - 1 cup blueberries - 1 cup water plus a couple ice cubes Directions: - blend greens and water first - add apple and blend (cut in chunks so it blends well into green mixture) - add banana (cut in chunks) and berries blend until smooth and creamy - pour and enjoy! Reminder: chew your smoothie. I use quart size glass mason jars. Easy to pour into and drink out of. Don't forget to share too. Once you get "hooked" consider investing in a Vitamix or Blentec blender. They are more expensive... But they will last a lifetime and make mixing smoothies super easy. Cont’d Pg. 12 Use essential oils... therapeutic grade of course! Essential oils are the “blood” of plant life and enhance the healing effects of your green smoothie. CPTG (certified pure therapeutic grade) Oils make is super easy to