I often think to myself, “Ugh - I should use my Vitamix more.” We spent a good bit of cash on this thing, it has amazing powers, and I love it… but since the baby I find myself looking at it more than using it. So, let’s change that. Morning shakes are the easiest thing to make for breakfast. I’ve been on an eggs/avocado/toast kick lately myself, but I do have several smoothie/juice recipes I turn to time and again for lighter fare. Maybe you could use some shake ideas too! Here are 3 of my favorite blends (complete with ridiculous names as they do in juice bar culture)- remember, keeping a mix of veggies and fruits is ideal to avoid too much sugar in the morning:

#1 // The DealBreaker:

½ cucumber, skinned, seeded and cut lengthwise

2 handfuls spinach

1 C coconut water

¾ C frozen blueberries

1 spoonful peanut or almond butter

1 Tbsp flaxseed or hempseed oil

*go ahead and add some protein powder if you want!

#2 // The Mezmerizer:

1 C frozen pineapple or mango

1 C coconut water

1 inch fresh ginger root, peeled

½ tsp Turmeric powder

squeeze of lime juice

*this lady is tropical, add some plain yogurt if you want!

#3 // The Ommmm:

2 handfuls spinach

2 Tbsp parsley leaves

½ cucumber, skinned, seeded and cut lengthwise

1 C coconut water

½ apple, skinned and sliced (green for more sour taste, red more sweet)

Squeeze of lemon

*anyone on a detox? this one fits the bill perfectly!

Food Facts: Flax oil, Turmeric, Ginger root, & parsley are what I call “medical” food ingredients. All anti-inflammatory, especially the turmeric, and fitting for cleansing the body of toxins and excess accumulation we acquire over time eating fatty foods, animal products, dairy, bad oils, or processed ingredients. Happy blending!