Would Your Child Drink This Kale Smoothie?

Parentables

I don't believe you have to hide vegetables in order to get your kids to eat them -- although, once in awhile you might need to entice them to try something new. This kale smoothie is just the ticket. Most kids love to eat fruit because it is naturally sweet, but are less likely to eat green vegetables which can taste bitter on their still-developing taste buds.

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Although not always popular with kids, dark leafy green vegetables are the highest rated food on the ANDI nutrient density scale, scoring 1000 points (the maximum amount). Drinking a green smoothie is practically like taking a multi-vitamin. One cup of kale contains the daily required amount of:

  • beta carotene

  • vitamins C, E and K

  • calcium

  • magnesium

  • iron

  • potassium

  • phosphorus

  • zinc

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The fresh flavor of raw kale is highlighted in this easy smoothie that is naturally sweetened with orange juice and banana. I've added chia seed, which is another superfood that is rich in protein, fiber, and omega 3 fatty acids. You may remember chia from those zippy commercials in the '80's. It was sold in drugstores to make a living "pet". Don't let that stop you from trying it -- its one of my toddler's favorite afternon snacks.

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Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
1 small banana (fresh or frozen)
2 loose cups of raw curly green kale
2 teaspoons chia seed (whole or powdered)
1/2 cup ice

Place ingredients in a high-powered blender in the order listed above. Blend on a smoothie setting or until well-mixed. Makes one 6 ounce smoothie.

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