I’m starting the New Year with a green liver detox smoothie recipe to help cleanse any over-indulgence we may have consumed over the past few festive weeks.

There’s nothing like a nutrient-rich green zingy smoothie, packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to help support your body’s natural detoxification system and liver function.

Spinach forms the base of this green smoothie, it is high in chlorophyll, which can neutralize heavy metals. Spinach is usually a good green smoothie ingredient because the flavour is milder than other greens like chard and kale. Parsley contains a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, all of which support healthy liver function. Parsley, along with other fresh herbs, is known for its liver support.

I’ve added walnuts and avocado for a hit of healthy protein and fat.  Walnuts help the liver detoxify ammonia and are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep the liver clean. The avocado gives the smoothie a creamy texture and help make the smoothie more satisfying.

Lemon juice and pineapple have beneficial effects on the liver because they help break down toxins in the liver and body. Ginger can cleanse the body by stimulating digestion and support the cleansing the build-up of waste and toxins in the liver.

Blend together all the ingredients in a blender to make a nourishing and delicious breakfast, lunch, or snack. Enjoy!

Ingredients – serves 1 x 250ml 

• 1 large handful of fresh spinach
• 2 sprigs of parsley
• 30g walnuts
• ¼ avocado
• ½ juice of lemon 
• 1 cm fresh ginger 
• 40 g fresh pineapple
• 200 ml coconut water