I prefer to make my own green smoothie. I also favor making a delicious-tasting smoothie that does NOT rely on plant-based milks, like almond, coconut, cashew, oats or rice.  Why? For starters, I am allergic to all nuts (almond, cashews), and my body does not tolerate grains (oats, rice). Secondly, while I am not inherently against the idea of plant-based milks, most contain emulsifiers and thickeners, such as guar gum, cellulose gum or xanthan gum. For those who are sensitive (and I am), these additives can trigger digestive distress, like bloating, or contribute to gut inflammation.

Instead, I use filtered water OR a high-quality, glass-bottled spring water in my smoothies.

This delicious smoothie, loaded with greens and gently sweetened with half of a Bartlett pear, has a bright and zesty kick, thanks to fresh cilantro, ginger and sparkling water. The combination of fresh, organic ingredients also promotes detoxification (e.g., try this if you are constipated!)  and supports liver health.

Detox Spinach-Pear Smoothie

Serves 1-2
3 cups organic baby spinach
1/2 ripe Bartlett pear (remove core; keep skin on—do not peel), chopped
1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed organic lemon juice
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1-inch knob peeled, chopped gingerroot
1 cup spring water or filtered water
1/2 cup sparkling mineral water, like Pellegrino or Mountain Valley

Place all ingredients in Nutribullet or high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

Turmeric, with its distinctly brilliant orange-yellow pigment, contributes to this smoothie’s golden hue. It also contains beneficial anti-oxidant compounds that, taken consistently over time, can help tame inflammation.

Golden Glow Smoothie
Adapted from Clear Skin from Within by Dr. Trevor Cates

1 cup organic unsweetened coconut milk
1/3 cup unsweetened organic coconut flakes
1/3 cup fresh mango (or frozen)
2 pitted dates
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 teaspoon organic unrefined coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon dried maca (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 cup chilled mineral water, like Pellegrino OR 1/4 ice cubes made from filtered water

Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender or Nutribullet. Blend until smooth. Enjoy chilled.