Kale, Hemp, and Avocado Smoothie Recipe

by Dr. Ben Kim
PreventDisease

This smoothie is an excellent choice for times when you're looking to cleanse and feel light but still need enough substance to propel you through a busy day.

Hemp seeds are an excellent source of plant protein, providing all essential amino acids that your body can't manufacture on its own. Hemp is also a rich source of essential fatty acids - both omega-3 and omega-6 - that support optimal functioning of your cardiovascular and nervous systems. Contrary to popular myth based on the common origin of hemp and marijuana, it's virtually impossible to test positive for marijuana use from eating a small amount of hemp seeds on a regular basis.

Kale is arguably one of nature's best foods for warding off colon, breast, bladder, ovarian, and prostate cancer. This is largely due to cancer-preventing isothiocyanates that your body manufactures from glucosinolates that are abundant in kale. Isothiocyanates facilitate cellular detoxification at a genetic level, which is why kale is an excellent choice for cleansing programs.

Avocados are well known for their high lutein content which supports healthy vision. They also happen to be extremely rich in additional carotenoid antioxidants; not just beta-carotene, but others like alpha-carotene and zeaxanthin which have significant anti-inflammatory properties. Just be sure to get as much of the dark green flesh as possible when peeling or scooping your avocados, as this is where most of their carotenoids live. And don't be scared away by the high fatty acid content of avocados - as long as you're eating mostly minimally processed foods and leading a relatively active lifestyle, the natural fats in avocado will enhance your health and won't lead to unhealthy weight gain.

Makes four 12-ounce servings

Ingredients:

• 4 medium to large kale leaves, roughly chopped or torn (best not to use stems)
• 4 tablespoons hemp seeds
• 2 medium bananas, peeled and sliced into chunks, preferably frozen
• before making smoothie
• 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and roughly cut into chunks
• Splash (one tablespoon) of lemon juice
• 5-6 dates (pits removed)
• 4 cups almond milk

Directions:

For ease of blending, it's best to put kale into your blender first and almond milk last.

Blend away and enjoy this lovely health-enhancing smoothie.

About the author
Dr. Ben Kim is a chiropractor and acupuncturist living and working in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. Visit his website at www.drbenkim.com