Kale: The Jolly Green Giant

While I make no claims to be a nutrition expert, I’d like to share a recipe I’ve been enjoying daily for the last two years. Kale serves as the backbone of the recipe and as a result I have seen dramatic changes in my body. Kale is full of antioxidants, calcium, vitamins and supports cardiovascular health (lowers cholesterol), just to name a few of the many reasons why kale is king. It’s also low in calorie, high in fiber with each cup packing only 36 calories while giving you 5 g of fiber.  It keeps you full and satisfied longer. So, give this smoothie a try and you, too, can walk down the road to healthier living.

       KALE SMOOTHIE

• 2 c fresh kale (which I buy in bulk and store in freezer, cleaned and ready to go)
  
• 1 c fruit, whatever you have on hand or in season: banana, blueberries, strawberries, pineapple, apple (I often use frozen mixed berries which will alter smoothie color from pretty green to brown)
  
• 4 oz. coconut water, more or less as needed to thin smoothie
• 2 T wheat germ
  
• 2 T flax seed
  
• 3 oz. Good Belly or any probiotic drink
  

Put liquid in the blender, followed by dry/frozen ingredients. I don't use ice since the greens and berries are frozen, but you may wish to add ice. Blend on high until thoroughly blended and smooth.  And then, ENJOY! For me, it’s a welcomed and healthy start to my day. Why don’t you join me?

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