The best energy drink to get me jump-started in the morning is my spinach smoothie. Since that name isn’t the most enticing, I have renamed it Clean & Green! I put all the following ingredients in my blender and hit the puree button: 2 handfuls fresh spinach leaves, half an apple, 2″ segment of cucumber, juice of one lemon and/or lime, and few parsley leaves. I have also added other fruit that I may have in the fridge…pineapple, orange or grapes. The first thought that goes through your mind when you take your first gulp is…FRESH! That is the flavor! I often toast 2 slices of sprouted grain bread topped with peanut butter or humus to compliment my smoothie.
If you haven’t tried a slice of flourless sprouted grain bread, it is well worth your effort. Flourless bread is made with grains and legumes that are sprouted before grinding into flour. Sprouted grains have increased vitamin and nutrient content because the seed is first sprouted, making it alive and active in its growth process. Sprouted grain breads should be refrigerated or frozen until use. Since they are made without preservatives, they have a shorter shelf life. Sprouted grain breads are very healthy. They ususally use organic ingredients and are grown without pesticides and herbicides. They have a low glycemic index of about 45 and are low in saturated fat. Sprouting of the grain significantly increases the protein, vitamin and enzyme content of the bread. A common brand is Ezekiel and you will find it in the freezer section, most likely. Trader Joes also has several great varieties.
