Today is officially St Patrick’s Day but if you live in Boston, you might have thought it was this weekend like me. We have a huge parade on Sunday in South Boston that is one of the largest day drinking events in the city each year. If there is one thing I have learned from years of experience, the more natural sources of vitamins and nutrients you can consume first thing in the morning, the better you will feel after a day or night of too much booze. I created this juice/smoothie for people who love the idea of making a green juice in the morning but do not have the time for mornings like post St Patrick’s Day. It takes less than 5 minutes to prepare if you buy a few precut/prewashed ingredients. 

When you see the short list of ingredients, don’t be afraid it will taste like grass. I promise it is deliciously mellow and slightly sweet. 

Simple Detox Juice/Smoothie

• 16 ounces of Water
• Handful of precut Kale
• 2 stalks of Celery – cut and wash the entire stalk after you buy it. 
• 1/2 cup of frozen precut Pineapple
• 1/2 banana
• 1/4 avocado (optional)

Place all the ingredients in a high speed blender and mix until pureed and there is a smooth consistency throughout. I buy the kale already cut and washed from Trader Joe’s. Same with the pineapple but you can buy a regular pineapple, cut it up and use it fresh if you like. I only use 1/2 a banana. Leave the skin on when you cut it in half. Place the other half in the refrigerator to make another tomorrow or protein pancakes. Avocado is optional and makes it just a little bit creamier but the banana makes it creamy enough to enjoy as is. 

This is basically a juice made in a blender. My juicer takes to much time and this is ready to drink in about 4 minutes. I promise it is delicious and a great way to start your day full of energy thanks to these amazing detoxifying benefits. 

Avocado is one of the best detoxing foods you can eat due to nutritional value and liver cleansing ability. It helps your liver repair cells, protect itself against toxicity and get rid of toxins. Some studies have shown eating an avocado or two a week can remarkably repair liver damage. It’s also green making it a perfect St Patrick’s day standout.

Kale is a dark leafy green rich in both vitamins and antioxidants. It is also high in fiber to aid in digestion and elimination. It is also high in iron which is essential for proper liver function.

Celery is a blood cleanser by balancing the body’s pH. It is also hydrates your body by replacing lost electrolytes presumably from drinking on St Patrick’s Day.

Banana, like celery, is also great at rehydrating your body with plenty of electrolytes and B vitamins.

Pineapple is also a great detox fruit with high fiber and vitamin C. It contains an essential enzyme that helps digest food, promoting a healthy digestive system.

Studies have shown that women who drink tend to be slimmer so drink a glass of Guinness to celebrate tonight!

St Patrick’s Day Detox Green Juice (made in Blender)