Green juices and green smoothies have one primary nutrient in common: chlorophyll. This nutrient, as you may remember from chemistry class, plays an important role in making plants green and healthy. It is naturally rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and therapeutic properties that can improve overall health. Chlorophyll actually has a very similar molecular structure to the hemoglobin that is in human blood. The primary difference is that hemoglobin contains iron and chlorophyll contains magnesium. That being said, chlorophyll may have the ability to improve the quality of red blood cells.
That was a lot to take in for an intro to a green juice! Well, green juices and smoothies are nothing short of excellent for your cells, tissues, and organs. This recipe, in particular, has an array of ingredients with powerful flavors. The apple and cucumber provide some sweetness, which balances the assertive ginger, fennel, and kale. That said, this is definitely a juice for the familiar green juice drinker, the green juice aficionado if you will. It has powerful flavor that can be a little bitter for someone just getting into juicing.
Green juice may help to reduce inflammation because greens have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a normal response when the immune system is triggered, but chronic inflammation presents more serious problems. Excess inflammation in the body can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, and allergies. A green juice may also contribute to enhanced immune function. Many nutrient-dense super foods that boost immunity include leafy greens, pineapple, ginger, lemon, and celery. Additionally, drinking green juice may contribute to clearer skin. As stated earlier, chlorophyll helps to nourish cells, and the other antioxidants in this green juice also promote clearer complexion.
- Prep Time:5m
- Total Time:5m
- Serves: 1 serving
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Smoothies & Juices, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 c kale leaves
- 1/2 cucumber, chopped
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1 inch piece of ginger root
- 1 lemon, peeled
- 1/2 fennel bulb
- 1 celery stalk
Instructions
- Prepare all of the ingredients and process them through a juicer.
- Pour into a cup and drink within 15 minutes.