Beauty is in the eye of the beholder…and in the complexion of those who eat clean! The work your body does on the inside always shows up on the outside. This stands especially true when it comes to your summer glow. While creams and moisturizers are obviously helpful, there are few better ways to brighter skin than what you put in your body. This smoothie is one, for starters.
So, what’s in it?
A mix of fruit and vegetables loaded with electrolytes, perfectly plucked for the season ahead.
These are the all-stars
Pineapple, one of our favourites for high flavour but low caloric content, contains bromelain, which is a mix of protein-digesting enzymes. Bromelain is generally known for its anti-inflammatory properties, but in more beauty(ful) settings, you might find it in your favourite skincare products. A naturally occurring alpha hydroxyl acid, bromelain is often used in chemical exfoliants to remove dead skin cells, clearing it of pore-clogging inhibitors and allowing your refreshed skin to glow through.
Kale holds many accolades under its belt. A high fibre green, it is great for digestion, filled with antioxidants and gets much kudos for its anti-inflammatory properties. Now, when it comes to your summer glow, the list of nutrients it employs is extensive. An incredible source of retinol building beta-carotene, kale contains vitamin C, which the body uses to build and maintain collagen. What’s more is that one 33 calorie cup contains nearly 3 grams of protein, the main component to keratin (to which your hair and nails are largely made of). No wonder it’s superfood status!
Celery contains at least 15 different antioxidants, doing overtime on cell protection against oxidative damage. A veggie with the ‘alkalizing effect’, celery is rich in magnesium, iron and sodium, having what can be a neutralizing effect on more acidic foods. Celery and its seeds also do a lot of work on the anti-inflammatory front, housing nearly 25 anti-inflammatory compounds – bye bye, puffy skin!
What you’ll need: 1 medium sized cucumber, about 6 ounces, peeled and cut into large chunks 2 large leaves of curly kale or lacianto kale, stems removed 1 pear, cored and cut into large chunks 3-4 celery ribs, about 2 ounces, cut into large chunks Juice of 1 lime ½ cup pineapple juice 3-4 ice cubes
Add all ingredients to your blender, give it a whiz until smooth and enjoy!
