Detoxifying Coconut Water Smoothie

I spent the past five days soaking up sun, rays, and rum in the Dominican Republic.  I am aching for a fresh coconut, filled with its delicious nectar, coconut water, to start my day.  Fresh coconut water is amazing because it will replenish electrolytes–without the nasty dyes, preservatives, and added sugar from sports drinks.

It is a perfect hangover cure.  Our resort was all-inclusive (unlimited rum included), so my body is aching and needs serious nourishment and nutrient replenishing.  So, in an ode to the beloved coconuts, I made a tropical detoxifying smoothie with coconut water as its base.

The banana will help replace lost electrolytes and potassium from drinking alcohol.  The coconut water will help replace lost electrolytes from drinking alcohol.  The avocado provides healthy fat that will help line the stomach, and the ginger helps to stimulate the digestive system.  The pineapple is loaded with vitamin C and manganese.

Tip: You can get fresh coconuts from Whole Foods!  During the summer, they sell the giant green ones, but they sell the young ones year round.  Also, the staff is always more than happy to help by sawing off the top for you, leaving just the coconut flesh that you can easily pierce.

Detoxifying Coconut Water Smoothie

Author:

Vallery

Serves:

2 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pineapple (frozen OK)
• 1/2 cup mango (frozen OK)
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1/4 avocado
• 1/2 banana
• 1/4 cup coconut flesh from young coconut (optional)
• 1 small piece of ginger, peeled (about 1 inch)
• 1/2 – 1 cup coconut water (start with 1/2 cup. add more if needed to blend well)
• 4 ice cubes

Instructions

1. Puree on high until smooth.  Garnish with pineapple wedge.  Serve immediately.

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