The Power of Green Smoothies

Green smoothies are a great option if you want a quick and convenient balanced meal. Combining a variety of fruits, vegetables and dairy, they are a tasty concoction that serves up the right amount of fuel and nutrients to power you through the day or help you recover from a workout.

To make your smoothie a true superfood, add spinach. Spinach is one of the most powerful foods for overall health and performance. Benefits include:

• Aids in healthy digestion 
• Reduces inflammation to improve recovery
• Fights cancer with antioxidants
• Improves immune and nervous system function

Yes, negative connotations are associated with the flavor of spinach; however, it's barely noticeable when combined with other ingredients. The only difference is your smoothie might turn a shade of green.

Below is a recipe for a delicious and nutritious green smoothie, one you can eat in the morning or after a workout. It's a basic recipe, so feel free to customize it to your liking by adding berries, peanut butter or even a scoop of ice cream.

Green Smoothie Ingredients

• 1 cup skim milk
• 1 scoop GNC Pro Performance protein powder
• 1 medium banana
• 1 cup raw spinach leaves
• 3-4 ice cubes

Preparation

• Slice the banana and put the pieces in a blender
• Add milk, protein, spinach and ice cubes (placing the heavier items on top pushes them down into the blade)
• Blend until desired consistency

Green Smoothie Nutrition Facts

• Calories - 322
• Protein - 30g
• Carbohydrates - 44g
• Fat - 3g
• Fiber - 4g
• Sodium - 281mg
• Cholesterol - 41mg
• Vitamins - A, D, C
• Minerals - Potassium, Calcium and Iron

Photo: lindawagner.net