Nuclear Smoothies
Back in March our family began adding “green smoothies” to our daily diet after being encouraged by our visit with Matt and Sara. Sara’s Green Smoothie Challenge has inspired so many to make this step to better health. Eric and I can certainly attest to the great benefits of green smoothies, and our kids probably could too if they were a little older. We always try to push them off on our families when they visit, but they sort of turn up their noses at the idea; after all, spinach in a fruit smoothie doesn’t exactly sound yummy. It is so good, though; I promise!
A green smoothie is a perfect energy boost, a quick and super easy snack to hold you over until another meal, and it can be a wonderful way to get those veggies in for younger children who don’t like the textures of greens. I started in March drinking one per day, and it makes me smile to think that Shepherd has gotten a couple of cups of greens and lots of fruit through me every single day!
Despite all the feelgoods I get with doing this, however, apparently it won’t matter a bit if I’m not careful with my choices in purchasing the veggies. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have their own farm, and it seems that the food industry just gets scarier every month with how it processes to make a buck. I was reading this about food irradiation (a new phrase to my ears) earlier today. Have you heard of this? Maybe I’m just behind, but this is awful. Hormones, partially-hydrogenated oils, Splenda, Aspartame…. Add another precaution to the grocery list — the Radura symbol at our supermarkets.
“Understand food irradiation labeling laws: The FDA requires the labeling of whole, unprocessed irradiated foods but not packaged foods that contain irradiated ingredients. For example, if irradiated onions are used in a can of chili, this fact probably won’t be mentioned on the can’s label. But if those same onions are sold raw in the produce department, their package or display must say “Treated With Irradiation” and be marked with the Radura symbol (see picture above). These regulations do not apply to restaurants, schools, hospitals and other institutions, which can serve irradiated foods without notice…”
Yet another reason to buy organic (and not eat out)!
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Ughhhh! $$$$$$$ The grocery budget is already bursting at the seams as I add more and more whole and organic foods. Now, one more thing to think about. We don’t eat out as often though, so that is helping.
I have fallen away from my daily smoothies because it was getting to be quite pricey. I welcome any tips on how to maintain my green smoothie diet on the cheap.
These smooties sound great, Kristi! Thanks for the heads-up on the Radura symbol. I’ll add it to my list. I am with Lori on how the money keeps adding up on the healthier shopping bill. I keep reminding myself that I will pay more now or pay later in health problems and medical bills. Not that I can prevent anything that the Lord has ordained for me to go through in this life, but generally speaking, I’d rather cough up the money now and care better for my body. And my family, too, of course!
I have heard many people toss in a handful of frozed spinach into the smoothie, so that might be a less expensive alternative than fresh spinach. We keep our eyes open for times we can go and pick berries locally and STOCK UP our freezer for smoothies, as well!
I know I haven’t commented in a long time, but it’s been good to see how you’re doing, and pray for you and your family.
Many blessings to you, dear Sister in Christ!
we love green smoothies here! - you can’t beat fresh spinach
- we eat it on every sandwich (not pb and j, actually) and in every smoothie, and on the side for salads, etc. the kids even eat it by itself sometimes, which is funny. let’s get together soon!
I know it can be really frustrating on a budget to find good organics and feel like you’re doing well… but I agree, Jodi, I think it’s so worth it! We have gotten so used to the taste of organic produce, too. Everything really does taste better!
Lori, something that has helped us is to get a Costco / Sam’s membership (we got a Costco but ended up getting a Sam’s, too, recently because Sam’s is a lot closer to our house). It does save in the long run; both of those have organic frozen fruit (the blueberries are so good) and the supersize cartons of spinach /lettuce.
… this comment is scattered because Shepherd is waking up and starting to cry!!!
Thanks Kristi, I have never seen organic at our Sam’s, but I will look more closely. I do take advantage of the spinach there however.
Happy blending!
I love green smoothies, too. Try to have one every day, if not more
Full of energy, nutrition, delicious… what more could ya ask for, eh?
Cheers,
Kristen
I would love the recipe for the smoothies…they sound nutritious and delicious!
It’s scary to think what happens to our food before it reaches our tables!
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