The next time you think of a post-morning workout fix, go for a cleansing smoothie.
Not only is this packed with nutrients and flavour, but also acts a pick-me-up, giving you the energy you need to kick-start your day. It also gives your liver a detox. A cleaned liver can process toxins faster and give you healthy, glowing skin. Start with one smoothie, twice a week, which acts as a better option than just popping multi-vitamins.
1. CARROT-CUCUMBER SMOOTHIE
How to make:
Carrots — 2 cups
Cucumber — 1
(You can also add celery and apple)
Why it works:
- Carrots have vitamin A which aids eye health.
- They help digestion.
- They also help prevent sun damage.
2. BEETROOT
A red energising beet smoothie can be blended with other ingredients to hide its sharp taste.
How to make:
Beetroots — ½ cup
Red apples — a few pieces
Fresh ginger, grated — 1 tsp
Blend and enjoy.
Why it works:
- Beetroots are a powerhouse of vitamins like thiamin and riboflavin. It also has iron, copper, selenium, calcium and zinc, which build immunity.
- Beetroot also has carotenoids which slow premature aging.
- It aids healthy liver function and fights inflammation.
There's little that matches the power of a red energising beet smoothie. Blend it with other ingredients to hide its sharp taste.
3. STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE
This is a nourishing and delicious fix with low-fat milk or yoghurt and fresh strawberries. It can be made as an anytime treat, especially for kids.
How to make:
Yoghurt — 1 cup
Strawberries — 2½ cups
Ground flaxseeds — 1 tbsp
Honey (optional) — 2 tsp
Blend all the ingredients together. Serve chilled.
Why it works:
- Strawberries are the best source of vitamin C. They also have folate and potassium.
- These smoothies are also a source of fiber and keep you satiated for long.
- Ground flax seeds add omega-3 fats and fiber for that extra boost.
4. SPINACH-LETTUCE
A green smoothie with spinach lettuce or even green apple, is a great immune booster. It is green due to the chlorophyll, which makes it nutrient-rich and it adds oxygen to the blood.
How to make:
Lettuce head — 1, chopped
Celery — 3 stalks
Spinach leaves — a handful
Green apple — 1, cored and diced
Water — ½ cup
Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Why it works:
- Greens have an alkalizing effect on the body.
- Spinach is packed with nutrients and hydrates the skin.
- Green apple gives relief from digestive disorders and can lower blood cholesterol.
- Lettuce has fiber, which effectively cleanses the system.
- Avocados, which have high amounts of potassium and magnesium, can be added too. Read more here: green formal dresses
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