Smoothie Recipe to Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Finding the right recipes to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be an exhausting and frustrating process. My wife was diagnosed with IBS in 2011 after having irregular movements for months. To me, it was a simple fix: take laxatives. Unfortunately powerful laxatives didn't work for her so we had a doctor prescribe the most powerful medicine possible. The medicine worked for a few weeks, but quickly lost its potency after my wife's body became conditioned to it. After a few more months of frustration we decided to take a more natural approach through juicing. We bought a Big Mouth juicer and went to town. We tried all sorts of recipes and concoctions (some tasted better than others). After a few weeks of experimenting, we started juicing spinach, kale, and other greens. The result was amazing. My wife had regular movements without the need of heavy medication and chemicals.

Before I jump into the actual recipe let's talk about some natural foods that help produce movements.

Fresh spinach

Research studies show that taking spinach in juice form is actually the healthiest way to consume it. Spinach eases constipation and protects the mucus lining of the stomach, so that you stay free of ulcers. It also flushes out toxins from the colon. The abundance of vitamins and minerals in spinach can bring you quick relief from dry, itchy skin and lavish you with a beautiful complexion. Regular consumption of fresh, organic spinach juice has been shown to improve skin health dramatically.

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, with a whopping 10 grams in only 2 tablespoons. That is one-third of the daily recommended intake of fiber per day. Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals, aging and cancer. The high antioxidant profile also helps them have a long shelf life. They last almost two years without refrigeration. Chia seeds are also gluten free and do not need to be ground in order to obtain their nutrient replacement benefits.

Flax seeds

Flax seeds are very low in Cholesterol and Sodium. They are also a good source of Magnesium, Phosphorus and Copper, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Thiamin and Manganese. One unique feature of flaxseeds is their mucilage (gum) content. "Mucilage" refers to water-soluble, gel-forming fiber that can provide special support to the intestinal tract.The strong fiber content of flaxseeds-including their mucilaginous fiber-help to delay gastric emptying and can improve intestinal absorption of nutrients. Flaxseed fibers also help to steady the passage of food through our intestines.

Fresh kale

Kale is a great detox food. Kale is filled with fiber and sulfur, both great for detoxifying your body and keeping your liver healthy. One cup of kale has 3 ½ times your daily beta-carotene needs and tons of vitamin C to help boost your immune system.

The ultimate IBS green smoothie recipe (2 servings):

• 4oz filtered water
• 4oz orange juice with pulp
• 2 cups of spinach
• 1 large kale leaf (broken in half)
• 1 TBSP chia seeds soaked in 2 TBSP of water
• 6oz (3/4 cup) of frozen mango chunks

Directions:

In a high-powered blender add water and orange juice, followed by spinach, kale, chia, and mango (in that order). Blend on high for 60 seconds stirring every 10 seconds for better consistency. Pour and enjoy!