Your bowels are the fountain of health! Your organs depend on clean bowels to function properly, and without a healthy digestive tract, a variety of diseases and illness can manifest.
This super detox colon cleansing smoothie is great for any beginner, but also anyone who is well versed in keeping their bodies clean and clear of toxins (because lets face it, no one can ever be truly devoid of toxic substances – considering our soil, water and air are chronically poisoned).
If you suffer from allergies, arthritis, cancer, asthma, skin conditions, fatigue, digestive issues like bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, or brain fog, you likely have toxins trapped in your gastrointestinal tract. Getting rid of these toxins helps reverse these symptoms, and gives your immune system a huge boost!
So what are these ingredients good for?
Bananas: this amazing fruit contains non-digestible fibres like cellulose, hemicellulose and alpha-glucans, which prevent constipation and restore regular bowel function. They also help prevent constipation and diarrhea, thanks to their high levels of pectin, which help absorb water in the intestine, giving them a bulk-producing ability. Bananas also contain vitamin B6 and magnesium, which promote better sleep.
Kiwi: high in fibre, kiwi helps create bulk in the digestive tract so that you can have regular bowel movements. They contain a high concentration of tryptophan as well, which gets converted to serotonin in the brain, resulting in all-natural stress relief.
Dates: dates are a great way to add bulk to your diet. They are high in soluble fibre, which is necessary to promote healthy bowel movements, and alleviate constipation and diarrhea. They also help stimulate the growth of friendly bacteria in the gut, and can improve digestion of food thanks to their high amino acid and enzyme content.
Romaine: high in vitamin C and A. These two vitamins work together to prevent the formation of arterial plaque (and thus lower risk of heart disease and stroke). It is also a wonderful source of potassium, folate, iron, vitamin K, manganese, vitamins B1 and B2, and chromium. It helps support the bones, and regulate blood pressure.
Spinach: the health benefits of spinach are numerous.It contains a nutrient called glycoclycerolipid, which protects the lining of the digestive tract from inflammation-related damage. It also contains a large amount of fibre, which relieves constipation. It helps promote beautiful skin, boosts the immune system and provides the body with a host of different antioxidants.
Mint: mint is a great way to soothe your tummy and relieve symptoms of IBS like indigestion and colonic muscle spasms. It also helps open our airways, making breathing easier. It is high in vitamin C and A, as well as copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Cucumber: very hydrating, and full of B vitamins, silica, and electrolytes. Cucumbers help fight puffiness and bloating in the body, and work as incredibly effective anti-inflammatories.
Celery: incredibly alkaline. Helps to lower high blood pressure and acts as a natural diuretic to reduce excess water weight. It is a powerful detoxifier and excellent colon cleanser (super high in fibre!). It also contains at least 8 anti-cancer compounds that help fight against many forms of cancer.
Chia Seeds: chia seeds are a great way to promote healthy bowel movements. They stabilize blood sugar levels, providing you with long-lasting energy. They are an excellent source of calcium, iron, protein, omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamin C!
Ginger: a powerful, potent rhizome. This herb contains antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties. It is an effective anti-inflammatory, immune system strengthener, and stimulates the digestive tract to get rid of whatever isn’t wanted.
Turmeric: one of the best anti-inflammatories around! Super high in antioxidants and works as a great anti-cancer agent. Read more about the multiple health benefits of turmeric here!
Although you may be turned off by the colour – don’t be! This smoothie tastes pretty great, compared to a majority of other smoothies out there. The dates really help sweeten it up, and you can always add more if you please.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 4 peeled kiwi
– 3 medjool dates, pitted
– 1 cup romaine
– 1 cup packed spinach
– 1 tbsp. fresh chopped mint leaves
– 1/2 cup cucumber
– 2 sticks of celery
– 1 cup filtered water or coconut water
– 1/2 tbsp. chia seeds
– 1-inch fresh ginger root (or 1/2 tsp. ginger powder)
– 1-inch fresh turmeric root (or 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder)
Method:
Stick all of the above ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth (about 30 seconds max). Enjoy!
