Last Updated on December 3, 2023 by Cathy
A nutritious-packed green smoothie that is loaded with powerful superfoods like dark leafy greens and avocado.
When I first started making green smoothies I felt intimidated. I always worried the smoothie would taste like grass rather than something I enjoyed. So I always added fruit, usually berries and a banana to add a little bit of sweetness.
But, I had Candida overgrowth and SIBO on top of multiple sclerosis (MS) so that sweet smoothie was only feeding my infections and satisfying my sweet tooth. Studies have shown that people with MS have lower levels of key nutrients like folate, magnesium, vitamin E, and antioxidants found in dark leafy greens.
So I started experimenting with different vegetables. I also wanted a smoothie I could take to work in the morning that left me feeling satisfied until my next meal. I finally came up with a good-tasting unsweetened smoothie that is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
I make a full picture using my high-speed blender (64 ounces) and keep it in the refrigerator until needed. I know people recommend an expensive high-speed blender but I used my Ninja which works just fine. This smoothie will last me a couple of days and it makes a quick “meal.” I like drinking a glass first thing in the morning and another glass again in the evening to get the most nutrients.
Dark leafy greens
I like using the premixed organic salad blends then I buy a different one next time, that way I’m getting a variety of dark leafy greens and not always the same ones.
Avocado
Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats, it’s also a great source of calcium, vitamin B6, and magnesium. However, the FDA recently stated you need to wash them first since they’ve found bacteria such as salmonella and listeria on the avocado skins. No need to pick up more bad bacteria into your system.
Carrots
Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A. Also a great source of antioxidants, fiber, potassium, and vitamin K.
Celery
Celery is a good source of fiber, folate, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
Cucumbers
They are a good source of vitamin B1, vitamin C, biotin, copper, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Parsley
A great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, it’s also a good source of folate and iron. Plus, it’s extremely cheap which is always nice. It is loaded with antioxidants and amino acids and contains a compound (EGCG) that boosts the immune system and brain cells.
Coconut milk
It is a saturated fat but coconut milk helps decrease inflammation, lowers blood sugar, and improves hormone levels.
Unsweetened cranberry juice
An antioxidant with antibacterial benefits. It prevents infections such as urinary tract infections (UTI), and supports digestive health and heart health. (You may need to omit since cranberry juice may interact with certain medications so speak with your doctor first.)
Play around with other foods like beets, berries, zucchini, soaked pumpkin, or sunflower seeds.
Super Nutrient-Dense Green Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup of ice
- 2 cups dark leafy greens
- 1 avocado peeled and pitted
- 1 large carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- ½ large cucumber
- ¼ fresh parsley
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ½ cup unsweetened cranberry juice optional
Instructions
- Add ice and all the ingredients to the pitcher then fill the pitcher with filtered water to one inch below the fill line and mix until smooth.
- Enjoy!