Green Protein Smoothie

Raw, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free

Green Protein Smoothie is how I start my morning almost every day (after some hot water with lemon).  The smoothie is alive with nutrients and life force. The activated almonds are protein-packed and give a raw boost of energy and nutrients such as zinc, iron, potassium and vitamin E. The dark leafy greens, such as spinach and kale (I alternate depending on what I have on hand), are rich in vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as folate - a B vitamin that promotes heart health. Green leafy vegetables may also be one of the best cancer-preventing foods because of their high content of antioxidants.

Banana is a superfood that contains vitamins  A, B, C, E, and G, potassium, aluminum, sodium chloride, natural salt, acetic acid, Dolomite (calcium and magnesium), phosphorus, and selenium. Potassium is the star ingredient for the banana since it is an essential mineral that assists the body in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Potassium also plays a vital role in balancing electrolytes that elevate mood and energy levels. Bananas contain tryptophan, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which have been shown to lift depression and elevate feelings of well-being and relaxation. The naturally occurring vitamin B6 relieves sleeplessness, mood swings, and irritability. In addition, bananas can improve overall digestion by suppressing acid production in the digestive tract and relieving heartburn.

Ginger root is one of the healthiest spices on the planet. Gingerol, its natural oil, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Research shows that just 1–1.5 grams of ginger can help prevent various types of nausea, including chemotherapy-related nausea, nausea after surgery, and morning sickness. To make the smoothie even more powerful from an anti-inflammatory standpoint, add ground turmeric and a pinch of black pepper (or coconut oil) to help with the uptake of the turmeric. 

GREEN PROTEIN SMOOTHIE

Ingredients: (yields 1 large serving)

1/2 cup "activated" almonds
8 ounces of coconut water
handful of spinach or kale
1/2 inch of ginger root
1 banana (can be frozen)

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Prepare "activated" almonds ahead of time by soaking raw almonds in warm water with a pinch fo salt for 6 to 12 hours. Then, peel off the skins and rinse.
2. Place spinach or kale, peeled ginger root, coconut water, banana and almonds in a blender and blend well.
3. Sprinkle salt over the nuts.
4. If you do not have activated almonds, use a substitute like pea protein.
5. Optional: Can add ground cinnamon, ground turmeric and black pepper to create an anti-inflammatory cocktail.

Images & Copyright Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy   

Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy is a Harvard Business School-trained Strategist, Mind-Body Expert, Award-Winning Author, Keynote Speaker and Activist.  She is Founder & CEO of Power Living and creator of Elder Dignity.  Selected as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, her mission is to unleash human potential and create a more just and sustainable world.