You know the feeling… and no matter how well-intentioned your plans, the workplace Christmas parties, the indulgent gifts, the family reunions… sometimes it can be difficult to say no to rich and decadent treats, another glass of champagne, or a sneaky mince pie.
Staying hydrated throughout our warm Melbourne summer months is essential to health and keeping you feeling your best of the holidays. Dehydration can leave you feeling tired and heavy and can present as digestive discomfort including indigestion, constipation and bloating. You may be susceptible to skin breakouts, headaches, fatigue and irritability may interrupt your plans. Add ice cubes or frozen fruit to your drink bottle to stay cool, so you can carry it around with you through the day.
This green smoothie is full of hydrating and nourishing foods to help balance your body and keep you feeling fresh. The mint and ginger can help to soothe upset tummies, the bitterness from the cress and parsley, the lemon juice and turmeric can help to support and overloaded liver, and the fibre from the flaxmeal and avocado can help to regulate your digestion. Pair this smoothie with a couple of bolied eggs, a handful of nuts or a tub of natural yoghurt for a great breakfast to start your day if you foresee an indulgent day ahead, or to balance out the excess of the previous late night.
Cleansing Green Smoothie
1 handful baby spinach or watercress
¼ avocado, peeled
¼ Lebanese cucumber
1 stick celery
Juice of ½ lemon or lime
6 mint leaves
1 tbsp parsley
1 cup coconut water, chilled.
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp flaxmeal
2 tsp spirulina or vital greens powder, optional
Instructions:
1. Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. For a sweeter smoothie, add ¼ frozen mango to the smoothie mix before blending.
Serves 2.
Witten by Melbourne Naturopath Bree Jenner
