I’ve recently started drinking green smoothies. I was a skeptic at first. Who wants to drink blended spinach or liquid food? It sounds horrible and looks even more repulsive. Let me reassure you green smoothies are phenomenal! Not to mention that they are jam-packed with fiber and vitamins.

How does one go about creating a green smoothie? Here are a few pointers.

Base: To make a green smoothie you should start with a base, preferably a green one. Spinach, kale, broccoli or collard greens will all work.

Flavor: Add in fruit. Literally any fruit will work: apple, banana, raspberry, mango and melon. If you can imagine it, then you can blend it. Want to be especially healthy? Try adding in vegetables such as tomato, zucchini and cucumber.

Extras: To spice up your smoothie include cinnamon, peanut butter, avocado and vanilla extract.

Liquid: All that is still needed is a liquid. Consider adding in orange juice, apple juice, almond milk, coconut milk or coconut water.

If you are someone who needs a little more guidance or just jumping on the green smoothie train try following a recipe.

These magic smoothies are impossible to mess up. All you have to do is chuck the food you have lying around into a blender and you’re ready to go. If you like your drink chilled you can add ice or use frozen fruit.

In the U.S., we eat a lot of grains and proteins, but a very low amount of fruits and vegetables. We are overfed and undernourished. This is a trend that needs to be stopped. Green smoothies are a great way to consume piles of fruits and vegetables that are overflowing with the nutrients we need.

Green smoothies are also low in calories and keep you full for a long time. Fruits and vegetables (especially vegetables) are naturally low in calories. Green smoothies are a limitless way to stay full and healthy throughout your day. Not only are these smoothies nutritious but they also keep you hydrated.

This is an acceptable time to jump on the bandwagon and start drinking green smoothies. Stay hydrated and healthy folks.

Strawberry Banana 

Green Smoothie

1 cup spinach

1 whole banana

½ cup strawberries

1 cup yogurt / greek yogurt

1 cup of water

Orange Banana 

Green Smoothie

1 cup spinach

1 whole banana

1 whole clementine or ½

 whole orange

1 cup orange juice

Berry Green Smoothie

1 cup collard greens

½ cup blueberries

½ cup raspberries

½ cup blackberries

1 cup yogurt / greek yogurt

1 cup water