Here's a simple green smoothie recipe that includes spinach and other gut-healthy ingredients. Easy to whip up in the morning or as an afternoon boost, add this smoothie to your recipe rotation to fuel your body and mind while nourishing your gut. This recipe is gluten free and plant-based (it can also be dairy free if you choose a dairy free yogurt option). 

Why this recipe is gut friendly:

Green smoothies can be a delicious way to incorporate more greens and other nutrient-rich foods into your diet. When aiming for gut health, you might want to consider ingredients that are high in fiber, antioxidants, and probiotics. Spinach is high in iron and fiber, which will help keep you energized and regular. Bananas are great for digestion and provide natural sweetness. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes and is a miracle for hydration. Chia and flax seeds are both high in omega-3 fatty acids as well as fiber. If you choose to use yogurt, you will be getting a probiotic boost! Lemon juice is helpful in alkalizing the body, and ginger is a natural antioxidant as well as having anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients: 

1 C Fresh Spinach Leaves (or frozen)

1 Small Banana, Peeled 

1/2 C Pineapple Chunks 

1/2 C Coconut Water or Filtered Water

1/2 C Unsweetened Almond Milk (or other non-dairy milk)

1 Tb Chia Seeds or Flax Seeds 

1/4 C Greek Yogurt or a Plant-based Yogurt 

1 Tb Fresh Lemon Juice 

1 Small Piece of Fresh Ginger, Peeled 

Ice cubes (optional)

Optional Add Ins:

1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup for Added Sweetness 

1 Pinch of Ground Cinnamon or Turmeric for Additional Health Benefits and Flavor

How to:

Wash and prepare all the fruits and vegetables. Place the spinach, banana, and pineapple chunks into the blender first. Add the coconut water and almond milk. Add chia seeds or flaxseeds, yogurt (if using), lemon juice, and ginger. Optional: add sweeteners or spices like honey, cinnamon, or turmeric. Blend on high until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, add more liquid and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. Add ice cubes and blend again for a colder smoothie, if desired. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices, if needed. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately!