Happy Foody Green Smoothie Challenge – 2009
August 10, 2009 at 4:15 pm 115 comments
Last year I launched the Happy Foody 30 Day Green Smoothie Challenge…it was a huge success and helped many people change their eating habits. SO…we’re going to do it AGAIN! It’s the perfect time to kick start a healthier you…summer is coming to a close soon and fall upon us. Seasons are changing…and you can change too! Adding a green smoothie to your day is the BEST thing you can do to get on the path to a healthier you. When you drink a big green smoothie in the morning, it fills your body’s need for those vital nutrients to function throughout the day. You will slowly STOP CRAVING junk food. It’s like magic!
We will begin on August 17 and end on September 17. Here is what you are committing to:
- Drink at least 16 oz. of green smoothie per day (a quart would be even better!)
- Do some sort of activity every day. This could be an intense workout, or just dancing with your kids around the living room. It could be a 15 minute yoga session or a walk around the block.
- Add a green leafy salad to your lunch or supper (with light dressing…stay away from the creamier sauces).
- Stop drinking pop.
- Cut out all white sugar.
So who is in?! Leave a comment below with your intention and watch your life change. Feel free to grab the little icon from above and link it back to this post. Tell your friends. Tell your co-workers. Tell your family. Get yourself a green smoothie buddy. Can’t wait to hear your stories!
Be sure to join our Facebook group here for additional motivation and inspiration.
So, HOW do I do this green smoothie thing?
The most common question I am asked on this blog is: “What do you put in your green smoothies?” Here is my favorite “recipe”:
Fresh pineapple
Frozen banana
Frozen mixed fruit
One peeled orange
TONS of baby spinach
Water to blend
We usually make a full Vita-Mix of this each morning (approximately 2 quarts). Watch the video below to see me make my smoothies!
If you’re wanting a few more options for green smoothies, be sure to check out Kevin Gianni’s new smoothie book. I recently bought both the eBook and the hard copy and I LOVE it! So often, smoothie books call for yogurt, cow’s milk, etc. The recipes in his book are completely raw vegan. Awesome. Kevin didn’t just write a bunch of recipes, He asked over 20 leading health experts what their favorite smoothies were, tested them and now has compiled them into a book of over 165 great tasting recipes. Now you can find out what Victoria Boutenko, Doug Graham, Ani Phyo, Mike Adams, David Wolfe, Angela Stokes and more, blend up in their Vita-Mix when they’re in need for a meal or a quick snack! It also has tons of fun information about different superfoods, fruits/veggies, nutrients, etc.
If you do this challenge, I guarantee you will see changes in your body and your mind. Check out the testimonials of readers who participated last year:
Hi Sara!
We did the challenge as a family. Here’s what we noticed:At the end of January, I decided to finally go vegetarian and to cut out dairy. I started green smoothies about two weeks later so my observations must fairly be based on both of those changes.
- I lost 14 pounds.
- Despite losing weight, my milk production definitely increased.
- My toddler happily slurps approximately a pint of green smoothie every day.
- My elimination, which has been really erratic since my children were born, is completely healthy and normal now.
- My skin glows and is completely clear.
- My husband’s dark eye circles are much lighter and his allergies (environmental) haven’t been bothering him.
- My husband reports more energy during his work day without having to rely on caffeine.
- Everyone around us is getting bad colds and flus and we are healthy. Only the baby had the sniffles for a couple of days but it never got worse than that and went away quickly.
- I don’t need nearly as much food to satisfy me as I used to and my cravings for “bad” food are gone. I don’t even think in terms of bad or good anymore. There’s food (whole plant food) and not-food (animal products, packaged junk food, paper, dirt, etc) I would no sooner eat a hamburger than I would a shoe.
- For me, it was the perfect jump start to being “successfully raw”, to take a page from Karen Knowler. For me and my family, that’s around 75% raw.
I just feel so good. I can’t thank you enough for being the impetus to finally DO this. I turn 30 next week and I am so excited to be moving into my best health ever. How’s that? All blessedly true!
-Tara
http://fiddlemama.blogspot.comHi Sara,
We have been doing the smoothie challenge for about a month now. I
have to say that this is the best thing we have ever done for our
family. I notice a big difference if I have missed a day or two. I
think in the past month, I have only broken out with ONE pimple, and
that was stress-induced (the in-laws were flying in). Thank you for
introducing the Green Smoothie to our family. Your blogs and pictures
are always so inspiring. I consider you a friend, and I’ve never even
met you! Hopefully one day our paths will cross. Take care, and God
bless you and your family!
Kathi
http://chrysanthemama1.blogspot.com/
Hi Sara!
Has it been 30 days already? I just wanted to thank you for getting me started on green smoothies. I had a rough start (some major detox going on), but this is a habit I plan on keeping. I am AMAZED at how my sugar cravings are kept at bay just by having a green smoothie for breakfast. I strive to eat raw until dinner…some days I do it, some days I don’t, but all in all, the green smoothie at the beginning of my day sets me on a healthier path for the rest of the day.A few benefits I’ve noticed…
- F ewer sugar cravings
- My hair looks much healthier
- I don’t feel bloated or have digestive issues, and perhaps the most rewarding…
- My husband and my baby are on a green smoothie kick too! We still can’t get our toddler on board, although every now and then he’ll drink a little bit of a “pink green smoothie”.
Anyhow, thanks again for helping my family to start a healthy new habit! I am now exploring more raw foods and, while I’m not yet ready to go 100% raw, I definitely am ready to start incorporating more raw foods into my diet!
Jennifer
Entry filed under: Green Smoothies, Raw.
115 Comments Add your own
Leave a comment
Trackback this post | Subscribe to the comments via RSS Feed
Happy Foody 
1.
Heather A. | August 10, 2009 at 4:48 pm
So excited to do this! Last year I didn’t participate, but I was already drinking green smoothies on a pretty regular basis. Today kicks off the WholeFu Challenge over at http://www.rawfu.com so this is a great time! 🙂
2.
purpleflowergrl | August 10, 2009 at 4:56 pm
I am in! I am about a week and a half into daily green smoothies already and I am loving it. This is something I have been considering for a while (I think I discovered your blog last summer!), but thought I couldn’t because I didn’t have a Vitamix. Well, my cheapo little blender is doing the trick (I use softer fruits like berries, bananas, mangoes…). My further motivation comes from a HORRIBLE visit with my doctor where I was given alarming news about my cholesterol. I have found myself being pulled away from the way I like to eat to the way others around me like to eat. It is time to heal myself and influence those around me in a positive way. I look forward to the 17th!
3.
Heather | August 10, 2009 at 6:32 pm
I am definitely in! We just tried green smoothies last week, and I really like them! So does Emma (she is 15 months), so I am happy about that. Although, she will drink anything through a straw…and Matt likes them too. I am really trying to do the “healthier” thing, so I think this will be a great challenge to help me on my way!
4.
Jenna | August 10, 2009 at 6:45 pm
Count me in! I’ve been wanting to do this for awhile, and this is just the motivation that I need. Thanks Sara!
5.
Noelle | August 10, 2009 at 6:46 pm
I’m in. I’ve wanted to try this for a while and this is just the kick start I needed. I’m hoping my old blender will do the trick (I’m hoping one day to get a vitamix)
6.
Kelly | August 10, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Yes, we will! We already do green smoothies, but not every day. And this will hopefully be the kick start to get me to stop eating so much candy (gummy candies, pure sugar). Love, thanks!
7.
Lindsay | August 10, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I’m In!!! I found your blog after your last challenge so I’m excited to get on board for this year’s. I’ve made green smoothies before but never stuck to it. I can’t wait to try the challenge and this will definitely help me keep the motivation to do it everyday!
PS: So glad you call it Pop too! (even though I don’t drink it anymore) I live in New York now after moving from Pittsburgh and everyone here corrects me and says “no its soda” 🙂
8.
kimberly | August 10, 2009 at 7:31 pm
I have a vitamix but it doesn’t like frozen bananas… shuts down the machine with a stinky smell. How thawed are the ones you use in your video?
9.
LobotoME {goods to keep ME sane} | August 10, 2009 at 8:09 pm
i’m in! xo, J 🙂
10.
Kristen | August 10, 2009 at 8:23 pm
I’m in again. I tried to stick to it last year, but didn’t do it. I’m determined now!! I’ve been feeling very run down and yucky for the past few months. I need to do something to feel better. I think this will help my body get back healthy again!
11.
beth | August 10, 2009 at 8:40 pm
I’m in! I did it last year too! I don’t drink them everyday though so this will help me to kickstart that. Here’s my fave recipe:
A bunch of baby spinach
A small bunch of mint leaves
Juice from several limes
water
a little agave
blend! YUM!
12.
leslie | August 10, 2009 at 9:05 pm
I think I will give this a try. I have gotten out of the smoothie habit and would like to get back.
13.
Dawn | August 10, 2009 at 11:57 pm
I’m in, of course! I did the challenge last year, albeit a little later than the official challenge…and I’ll put my 2 cents in…DEFINITELY MAGIC in those green smoothies! So simple, too. Nothing strange, no foods you’ve never tried before, just fresh fruit, greens, water. I’m still having regular green smoothies, but not necessarily every day. It will be wonderful to have some motivation to make my daily smoothie!
14.
Jacqulyn | August 11, 2009 at 12:25 am
Count me in. Looking forward to increased milk production, weight loss and more energy!
15.
Amy @ Muddy Boots | August 11, 2009 at 2:30 am
I read in Nourishing Traditions that eating raw spinach more than a couple of times a week can cause irritation to your mouth and intestines. Have you heard that? Can you address it??
16.
sara | August 11, 2009 at 2:54 am
Do you have any ideas for green smoothies that are very low sugar. I can eat stevia and limited amounts of berries and green apples and coconut water. I have tried the green smoothie on Crazy sexy cancer dvd extras, but it didn’t digest well and I have seen a recipe on the Body Ecology website that I would like to try. I really miss green smoothies, but ever since I have had to take a break from most really sweet fruits, it has taken some of the delight from them. Are there many ideas in the Gianni’s smoothie book for this situation?
17.
Nichole | August 11, 2009 at 3:56 am
How great! I’ve been reading your blog(s) for a while now and have gotten so much from you insight. I am working towards eating much much less meat and dairy – this whole week our meal plan is vegetarian and mostly dairy free. I’ve been wanting to implement green smoothies so this challenge will be perfect.
Thanks for sharing.
18.
livelightly | August 11, 2009 at 4:21 am
Noelle…I started out with a $5 garage sale blender. It was the old, very sturdy kind, and it did well 🙂
Kimberly…try putting the softer fruits at the bottom towards the blades. I’ve never had any problems with frozen bananas though. Try slicing them up first, and then freezing them. Is it an older Vita-Mix?
Amy…yes, I’ve heard people talk about the oxalic acid in the spinach…but in my research, it seems most experts agree that while it MAY cause irritation in certain people, it’s wildly unlikely that there would ever be an overdose of it (causing internal damage, etc). You need to listen to your OWN body and just do what is right for you. Switch the greens if it irritates you…kale or sprouts would work too.
sara…yes! Kevin’s book has lots of “savory” smoothies as well that are not fruit based. There are just lots of great ideas and recipes overall. You can definitely make up your own concoction that works for you…how about lime or lemon juiced with water and stevia, a few berries and spinach? Just an idea…you’ll have to experiment and let me know. I’m more of a sweet fruit girl, so I haven’t done much with the low sugar stuff.
19.
Shellbell | August 11, 2009 at 4:38 am
Count me in! This is just what I needed to get back into living a healthy lifestyle. I’ve so fallen off the wagon, and feel sluggish and lethargic. It’s bad when your 8 yr old son asks “mom, when are you going to make those green smoothies again?”
20.
Sarah | August 11, 2009 at 6:52 am
Hello Sara,
I’m going to do the challenge with you. I am So excited! I’ve been a vegetarian for 2 years, and have just started toying around with a raw food diet. Your site has given me a ton of both information and inspiration! I have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and have been trying to control my symptoms with diet, the biggest one being extreme weight gain. My levels have been in the normal range since I started paying more attention to what I put into my body. Now I’m trying to lose the weight I gained while it was still out of control (60lbs!!) and gain some more energy! I’m excited to do this challenge!
21.
Mia | August 11, 2009 at 1:14 pm
I’m all for doing this Sarah. I’ve even got a few friends on board. How ever I just wanted to comment on how you slipped in no white sugar so non nonchalantly in your list of things to do. It’s not that I advocate white sugar, it’s just that cutting it out of your diet is a challenge all in itself. I’ll do it though. 🙂
22.
Kelly | August 11, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Oh I am so in! I was just telling my neighbor how I’ve gotten out of the habit of making smoothies…it’s so helpful to do it with others for motivation.
This is the perfect time for it too, not only will it get us healthier for possible fall flu season, but Aug. 16th is my 27th birthday so a great way to kick off the year =).
23.
Kelly | August 11, 2009 at 1:51 pm
p.s. I’ll also link to this on my blog http://www.rawfoodrealpeople.blogspot.com in hopes of getting some people I actually know to join!
24.
Jess | August 11, 2009 at 8:19 pm
I’m in – thanks to my sister in law! This looks great and a wonderful way to get the whole family involved in eating better!
25.
solanacea | August 11, 2009 at 8:49 pm
you can count me in.
your challege fits perfect with my new way of eating.
i just ordered a juicer and i hope it will be here in time.
bb
kassandra
26.
Streuselmama | August 11, 2009 at 9:08 pm
I’ll join! I’ve been lacto-ovo vegetarian for 14 years now, and have been trying to eat more whole foods, and increasingly raw foods over the past 4 or so. Your blogs have been a huge help in making some of these changes. I’ve been doing green smoothies for a week or two already, and have definitely noticed a difference in appetite and energy level. If only I could get my kids to drink them!
My fave so far is 2 mangoes, 1 orange, 2 giant handfuls of spinach and water. YUM!
27.
robin | August 11, 2009 at 10:42 pm
DH and I are in too! We’ve actually been doing this since the 6th as a practice run – then I saw you activated the challenge again – yay!
Thanks for all your work on your blog. It’s been a great blessing.
robin
live-whole-food.blogspot.com
28.
Bonny | August 11, 2009 at 10:45 pm
I’m in!
29.
helenw13 | August 12, 2009 at 12:17 am
Hi there…
I am completely in! I believe I found your blog(s) right after you ended last year’s challenge and I was disappointed…so this is great timing for me…I maybe able to get the whole family involved as the 17th begins two weeks of vacation…we are home for one and at the beach for some of the other…I will definitely pack my blender!
Thanks Sarah!
30.
sherri | August 12, 2009 at 3:22 am
Yay! Count me in! I did 1 week with you last year and felt great! I think I’ll go for all 30 days this year. My kiddos (3 and 1 1/2 love the smoothies too!)
31.
sarah | August 12, 2009 at 4:52 am
in. everyday that i’m home i’ll do it [every thing but the green smoothie when i’m away from home, done] and i’ll make up the days after the 17th for green smoothies that i missed. yay. i love a good challenge…and i think this one will be easier than i feel right at this moment.
32.
Carrie | August 12, 2009 at 1:16 pm
I am sooo in! This is just the push I need to start my 60+ lb. weight loss journey. I was suprised that they really do taste so yummy.
33.
Michelle Stone | August 12, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Hi Sara, I’ve been a reader of this and your other blog for some time now and you are a huge inspiration! I recently quit smoking (well, sorta recently…going on almost 10 months yay!!!) and have really started to focus on improving my health. I’ve been eating WAY more healthy and exercising but really feel like I could benefit from trying the smoothie challenge. I am so in!! 🙂
Can you recommend a decent blender that isn’t too expensive? I would love the Vita-Mix but it’s way out of my budget right now! Thanks!! 🙂
34.
rose | August 12, 2009 at 6:38 pm
I’m game to try! I like green smoothies, I just have issues with being consistent. Here’s to renewed determination!
35.
Menden @ Skinny Menny | August 12, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Count me in! I will sometimes randomly have a green smoothie in the morning, but I’ll look forward to seeing how great I feel after 30 days of having one consistently! Thanks 🙂
36.
Mariah | August 12, 2009 at 7:57 pm
I’m in! I just started a new blog and the timing on this for my first post is perfected! The timing is also perfect for many areas of my life too! Yay, and thanks! 🙂 I linked to you here:
http://iwokeuponemorning.blogspot.com/2009/08/name-of-my-blog-is-i-woke-up-one.html
37.
cavewoman | August 13, 2009 at 1:37 pm
I’m in.
I added a salad to my veggie wrap lunch. Very delicious.
This morning I made my first green smoothie.
I drank half of it for breakfast and I intend to finish it for lunch—with maybe a small salad thrown in for lunch.
My First Green Smoothie
1 whole pear
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup of leafy spinach
several sprigs of mint.
Yum!!
38.
laurel Sauls | August 13, 2009 at 4:27 pm
Perfect timing for me. I’m in!
39.
bluezfire | August 13, 2009 at 4:55 pm
I’m in Sara. I blogged about it here: http://unearthingme.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/starting-off-in-the-raw/
40.
KMH | August 13, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Sara,
I use Marilu Henner’s Total Health Makeover to keep my health in line. It has 5 NO’s: chemicals, caffeine, meat, dairy and sugar and 5 Do’s: exercise, food combine, sleep, limit fat, and live with gusto! God has really used her program to help me regain my health and reclaim my life.
I am interested in doing the green smoothies, but wondered about the food combining aspect. According to THM (and I think she got it from macrobiotics) we’re supposed to eat our fruits separately from other foods.
Do you know the whys and wherefores of that theory? Would the benefits of a green smoothie be greater than the digestive no-no of miscombining?
I want to do this. I just need to figure out what to do about the food combining.
Kim
41.
Kiersten | August 13, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I am on board! This is just the jumpstart I need to get back on track and recommit.
42.
livelightly | August 14, 2009 at 12:51 am
Kim…from what I understand, greens are not considered “veggies” and they can be combined with anything without problems. You MAY have problems if you start throwing avocados or other oils into the smoothie with the fruits.
43.
Kristin C | August 14, 2009 at 1:15 pm
I am going to join! Last year I missed your challenge….so I am psyched to participate this time around. I have an 8 week old and have been fighting my sugar cravings to get rid of these pesky few pounds that have hung on post-pregnancy.
I’m excited to start!
44.
Kelly | August 14, 2009 at 2:02 pm
Me too! ♥
45.
Amiee | August 14, 2009 at 2:26 pm
I’m in! I think it will be a great way to stay focused over the next month.
Thanks for your joyful encouragement! I started reading your blog last year around green smoothie challenge time and it is really encouraging to look at life now. Looking back there is no one huge change that I made but rather a collection of small choices that have had a great impact.
Last year I couldn’t imagine doing a whole month of green smoothies but I started with a few a week and now I can’t even imagine not drinking one every morning. There have been some disasterous creations but now I have found a yummy groove.
My focus this time around will be eating more salads…gotta find my yummy salad groove.
Hooray for the green smoothie challenge and for friends to share the journey with!!!
46.
Denise Muller | August 14, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Okie Dokie… I’m a bit late to the party, but I’m in! I’m having a kickoff smoothie party at my house Monday for all of my veggie mom friends with my Blendtech blender 🙂
47.
livelightly | August 14, 2009 at 7:47 pm
Denise,…you’re such a rock star 🙂 Wish I could come!
48.
Daniele | August 14, 2009 at 9:51 pm
Count me in!! I just had a baby 2 wks ago and am looking for healthy habits to start or re-start…doing the green smoothie has been on the priority list so your timing is perfect. Can’t wait, so excited!!
49.
KMH | August 15, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Thanks for the clarification Sara. I guess that means that I am in!
Kim
50.
Bonnie | August 16, 2009 at 8:59 am
I’m so in !! I just saw a link to this on my friends facebook page today … tomorrow is the 17th (here in Australia) so I’m gearing up, ready to go !!!!
I did a post about it here …
http://passthebeansplease.blogspot.com/2009/08/30-days-green.html
51.
Christiana | August 16, 2009 at 11:34 am
Thanks to my daughter, I’m going to try it.
52.
Stephanie | August 16, 2009 at 8:33 pm
yay! I am definately in! I have been feeling kinda sluggish since I cut out dairy and I know I should be feeling better then this! I think I have just not been getting enough good stuff. This will be great for me. Count me in!
53.
Sarah Marie | August 17, 2009 at 4:10 pm
I’m definitely going to do this! It won’t be much different from my usual salad-eating, green-smoothie-drinking, running etc. daily life, but it’s just the motivation I need to stay consistent about caring for my health!
54.
Lauren | August 17, 2009 at 4:54 pm
I’m going to do it! I found this this morning, and since it starts today I decided that now is the time to go for it! I’ve been wanting to make some changes in my diet but I keep putting it off-I’m taking this as a sign!
55.
natalie | August 17, 2009 at 7:09 pm
ok, ok, I’m in! Here we gooooooooooo……….
56.
livelightly | August 17, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Yay! So glad to see everyone off to a good start. Let’s have a great month!
57.
Neeley | August 17, 2009 at 7:52 pm
I’m in. My oldest child saw my smoothie and asked for one too. So I am excited. Thanks
58.
debbie bailey | August 18, 2009 at 2:12 am
Psst! You spelled Challenge wrong in the heading. Just a little heads up! Love the challenge. Thanks!
59.
Danielle | August 18, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Right now I’m working full-time and going to school, so my free time is a little limited. If I were to make up a week’s worth of smoothies and put them in the fridge would they keep or would it be better to freeze them and take one out the night before?
60.
livelightly | August 18, 2009 at 3:56 pm
Danielle,
I would make one batch of 3 smoothies on Sunday night. Another batch on Tues. night of 3 smoothies. Another batch on Sat.
I wouldn’t make them for the entire week, because honestly, they start to taste funky. Plus they will continue to oxidize and lose their potency every day.
My green smoothie takes me less than 5 minutes in the morning…so hopefully you can squeeze that in somewhere!
Congrats for taking the challenge!
61.
Nic | August 19, 2009 at 1:56 am
I’m in! I actually joined the Facebook group and submitted a couple of photos of yesterday’s smoothie.
Today’s was more, well, of an “earthy” green. Haha! I added a handful of handpicked blackberries that I’d frozen earlier this season. Green + Purple = Ugly.
My 3-year-old had some rather interesting suggestions about it…
I will say this, though — both mornings, he’s asked specifically for his own smoothie and HAS to help toss the frozen fruit in!
As a mother of 2, I enjoy that this experience is working its way into the little blooming minds of my children.
62.
Chantal | August 19, 2009 at 1:54 pm
I think I may give this a try (linked her from Amy – Muddy Boots). My hubby and I both need all the help we can get.
63.
leslie | August 20, 2009 at 1:45 pm
I’m giving this a shot, and documenting progress at http://cuppapixie.blogspot.com
🙂 Thanks for the challenge!
64.
Katie | August 20, 2009 at 8:10 pm
I am just amazed that your baby didn’t wake up!
65.
Donn | August 20, 2009 at 8:46 pm
I just had my 59th birthday, have been a vegetarian for 25 years, but with age feel the need to lose 10-15 lb and make my body as healthy as possible. I’ve committed to eating only whole foods close to the Earth…definitely daily green smoothies and a lot of raw foods and salads. Thanks for your inspiration!
* Just a note: I add cinnamon to my smoothie since it evens out blood sugar levels and ginger since it is an anti-inflammatory.
66.
Tory | August 20, 2009 at 10:27 pm
I haven’t checked your Happy Foody blog in some time but, oh, I wish I would have. I would’ve loved to participate in this challenge. I’m actually in the process of making a big transition in my work life – leaving something that made me very unhappy. This unhappiness has affected my entire life – my life with my family, my body, my spirit. Now that I’m making a positive change at work – I also want change the rest of the parts of my life. And the guidelines for this challenge are right along the lines of some of the things I’ve thinking that would be so beneficial for my body and mind. It would’ve been great to get started with everyone else! I’ll definitely join the facebook group – for some inspiration when I am able to get started.
67.
Tara Kristof | August 21, 2009 at 2:10 pm
I found this a couple of days late so I started on Aug 19 but I’m in! Third morning w/ the quart smoothie and I feel TONS better already. Thank you! 🙂
68.
Shannon | August 21, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Oh, crumbs! I only found this today so I”m going to be at least 5 days behind the rest of the challenge by the time I get supplies, etc. All the same I would really like to give it a try. I’ll just go for however many days extra will give me a full month. I’ve been interested in raw food and especially how anyone can drink a green smoothies for breakfast, for some time now, so this is a good kick up the bum to get be started. I’m a vegetarian who is trying to cut down on my eggs and dairy and generally eat more vegan meals, especially cutting out eggs or dairy where unnecessary (in sauces, some baking, etc.) so I can enjoy them where they are the star player (egg sandwiches, a good slice of cheese and chutney, hot cocoa) while keeping my sat. fat intake low.
Anyway, I’m wanting to try to detox a bit, as I’m only 24, never been pregnant, and a healthy weight, but have noticed a cellulite problem that has become so much worse since I’ve moved into a city. I already avoid almost all refined sugar for health, taste, and philosophical reasons (I don’t like the idea of food that has been unnecessarily altered, like bleaching and granulating sugar). I look forward to adding drinking enough water in place of this and the soda prohibition, since’ I don’t drink soda, either, but am very bad about having enough water. I’m also keen to make sure my physical activity aspirations become reality. This challenge seems just what I need, encouraging good practice and healthy living without going all Master Cleanse wacky.
Good luck to all my fellow participants!
69.
Julia | August 22, 2009 at 10:45 pm
A friend at work told me about your site! Her 2 sisters and myself are doing the Green Smoothie challenge and we are excited! I found it only takes a few minutes to make one in the morning. I add my chia jel right in the smoothie and it tastes great! So we will see how this turns out! I also found baby spinach is the best green to put in. Yum!
70.
olivia | August 24, 2009 at 2:52 pm
i have the same dish soap as you! i love the gardenia or the lavender…so lovely! that stick you use to mix inside the blender is great. how does it not get chopped up? i love all the comments and suggestions left by people. too bad the citrus season here in arizona is over, we have many orange, lemon & grapefruit trees i could have taken advantage of. oh, well, there’s always next year. right now i’m trying to figure out how to store up enough frozen fruits to get me through the winter. i’d rather buy fresh fruit at these prices and just freeze it than pay for the pricey bagged stuff in winter. i
71.
Sarah | August 26, 2009 at 8:45 am
I am in!
72.
Teresa | August 29, 2009 at 1:33 am
We are in….my 15 year old son and I have taken the challenge (a little late – but will still be doing 30 days – maybe more!!!) We started today and really enjoyed the drink… Luckily here in sunny Queensland, Australia, all the fruit is fresh and in season.. Best time of the year to start, with summer just around the corner.. Thanks so much for doing this.. Teresa
73.
Terri a Lucrisia | September 8, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I missed this challange, but I have been eating green for the past week, and feeling more comfortable, I have terriable bloating episodes. It’s nice to have people like you sharing the wealth of health with others.. Oh and by the way.. I WAS SHOCKED THAT YOUR BABY SLEPT THROUGH YOUR DEMONSTRATION OF THE VITAMIX MAKING THE SMOOTHIE.. LOL!!! That was GREAT!!! “smiles”
74.
mostlymorgan | September 9, 2009 at 2:57 pm
I’m starting a bit late–but am on day 2! Thanks so much for posting the challenge again. I feel great so far and am blogging about the experience 🙂
75.
Shannon | September 11, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I’m in awe of the green smoothie, I have to say. I’ve been Having my quart in the morning for 13 days now and I have lost NINE pounds!! Amazing. I’m not changing any other part of my diet either, just eating my usual (not veg or vegan) and doing my standard 30 min daily power walk. I did spinach the first week and kale this week and found that most of the weight I’ve lost has come off since using the kale, must be because it’s so high in fiber. My daughter has loved them too. Thanks so much for introducing me to the world of green smoothies!
(‘ve also had no problems with my 45 dollar Oster blender, for those who wondered. I just pulse it till it breaks up then let it rip on liquefy for about 4 minutes. Comes out perfectly smooth.
76.
pretty | October 11, 2009 at 11:39 am
I have been on green smoothies for over two months now, I cant seem to understand why I have put on half a stone, all my smoothies contain spinach, is this bulking me up, as anybody experienced the same? Please note I also have a healthy diet throughout the day as well.
Appreciate your replies.
Thanks.
77.
Charlotte | October 13, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Hi Sara , Just found this blog ( already followed your other one!) And am definately going to give the thirty day challenge a go ( albeit a little later than everyone else!) So excited can’t wait! Going to see if I can persuade anyone else to join me!
Charlotte xx
78.
Bea Kroeker | October 24, 2009 at 7:26 am
Hey I just found this post and so I missed the challenge…..lets start another one. I like the idea of being part of a challenge for doing healthy things. We could start it and run through Halloween to help with sugar cravings. Anyone up for a new challenge?
79.
Pam | November 4, 2009 at 1:53 am
Just wondering……why is it that this “conncoction” helps keep the sugar craving at bay? I’m a sugar-aholic and need so badly to stop! I like spinach and I love fruit but the two of them together just sounds awful BUT I think I’m going to have to give it a whirl since I need to cut drastically down on my sugar habit. I’m 51 yrs old and have put on over 50 lbs in the past 10 yrs. I guess this would be a good start at eating healthier and an attempt to cut my sugary cravings…..as well as lose weight. Suggestions are surely welcome!!
80.
Onna Koehn | November 10, 2009 at 3:58 pm
Well, call me a slacker my 1st day of my 7 day challenge was great! I’m starting slow… it’s what i KNOW i can commit to! I had to let you know that although we don’t have the great mixer i used my champion juicer to hemogenize all the frozen stuff and chop the spinach up before I blended it with ice in our sad little mixer. (I say ‘sad’ because anything with woodgrain stickers HAS to be sad.) Anyway, i took an artsy picture to document of [half] my resulting smoothie and enjoyed it right away! I posted about you and my picture on my blog!
Thanks from my slacker-soon-to-be-more-healthy self, and the baby inside of me (who’s still jumping from the yummy fruit!) We loved it!
~Onna
81.
Wendy | November 13, 2009 at 8:36 am
even though the challenge is officially over, we are going to do our own. i discovered your blog yesterday after reseraching gerson therapy (we just saw “the beautiful truth” this week). i will be getting the ingredients for our first week of smoothies at my next trip to the grocery! we can’t wait! thanks for the blog.
82.
amy | January 20, 2010 at 3:51 pm
I just ran across this last week–I have read your other blog for a long time but haven’t kept up with this one. Got a BlendTec for Christmas and am excited about starting green smoothies. I’m curious, though, do you not eat any fat with or in the smoothie? My DH pointed out as I proudly slurped down my smoothie that I needed to take fish oil capsules or something with it, otherwise my body would not absorb all the nutrients, since some of them are fat-soluble. Putting yogurt or milk *in* the smoothie would solve the problem, but I know you’re vegan–so I was just wondering how you address that issue. I thought about maybe putting coconut oil in the smoothie…
83.
Art | February 11, 2010 at 12:12 am
I ran across this blog recently.. and accidentally. Or maybe it wasn’t an accident.
For about 10 years, I’ve struggled with being vegetarian/vegan/raw.
Last year, I gave up meat for Lent.. and I’ve stuck with it. On Jan. 4 of this year, I went vegan for a month, and stuck with it. So I was looking for a new challenge for Lent this year, and came across this site. I think I’ve found my answer! Sounds fairly easy, except for the no white sugar part, but I’m going to give the whole thing my best shot for 40 days!
84.
Brian Allen | March 24, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Tomorrow is my first day. I weigh 398 right now and i desperately want to lose the excess weight and to live a long life with my beautiful wife and daughter. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers because I am at my wits end. I will keep everyone posted.
85.
Rebecca | May 11, 2010 at 12:43 am
Thank you for the wonderful post and video – I am only just beginning to explore the green smoothie movement and am very interested in it all. I just worry about buying all the out of season fruit… I’ll have to have a think about it all as I could probably use winter fruits just as well and I have a friend with a blueberry farm locally who freezes them…thanks for the food for thought – wonderful thing you have done!
86.
Jennifer | June 16, 2010 at 12:31 am
Can I add a bit of yogurt or will it ruin the whole process?
Thanks!
87. Adventures in Weight Gaining and Smoothie Drinking : Green And Free | August 17, 2010 at 11:56 pm
[…] a year ago I found a green smoothie challenge. I’ll admit that the sound of a green smoothie wasn’t too appetizing to me. But while in […]
88. Green Smoothies + My Heatlh :: Memphis, TN & DeSoto County Photographer » Memphis, TN & DeSoto County Photographer Michelle Stone's Blog | August 18, 2010 at 1:02 pm
[…] to a place where things were manageable. I also went vegetarian at one point last year and also did The Green Smoothie Challenge which was from August 17th-September 17th of last year. I journaled a little about it, but I […]
89.
Mimi | May 22, 2012 at 1:10 pm
Robyn-Thanks so much for your input! I am glad to say that you would be proud of my fridge and cubpdaros I have really made some major changes since finding your web-site. I am interested in loosing weight although more important to me is feeling energetic. My husband and I are both doing the green smoothies and similar diet and he has energy to burn. That’s probably why I notice it so much.Interesting that yesterday I had a doc followup after a bunch of blood work and the blood work showed T3 being very high and T4 very low. I have been on Armour(natural) for many years and now he is switching me to a compounded perscrip. Think you might have pegged that one.Thanks to you for all your input and for all you do for so many people!
90.
cathy | October 3, 2010 at 6:04 pm
l’m in for having a go at the smoothies, l am from england but live in spain were the fruit is sooo fresh. Thinking of going vegan so this will e a good start.
91. Simple Real Food Goal: Eat More Greens | Meet Miss Jones | October 13, 2010 at 7:51 am
[…] smoothies are super easy to make–my favorite recipe is from Sara at Walk Slowly, Live Wildly: blend two frozen bananas, pineapple chunks, a handful of frozen fruit, 1 cup of water, and a dash […]
92.
Stephanie M | January 20, 2011 at 3:01 am
Hey Sara,
I’ve been glued to your blogs for the last 24-hours! Hello! I love it all! I randomly came upon in when I saw an article about your family in the Brainerd Dispatch. Small world: my boyfriend’s sister is living in Brainerd to be closer to her fiancée who lives there, and she writes for the paper. Anyway…
I’m stoked about these green smoothies, but I have a question. I am a poor college student and would love to invest in a Vitamix someday, but can’t right now. In the mean time, do you think green smoothies are do-able in a food processor? Or should I just go with another blender?
Thanks for sharing and your help!
Stephanie
93. Green Power « Dancing by the Light | February 8, 2011 at 2:48 pm
[…] But I decided to branch out in an effort to get more veggies into myself and the boys. We made Sara Janssen’s version from Happy Foody. You can watch her video to see what she puts in it. I hyped the boys up the night before, telling […]
94. Off the Wagon « Dawn’s Place | April 23, 2011 at 11:50 am
[…] (Here is a post from Sara that can get you started on green smoothies, if you’re interested. I especially love the video, where she demonstrates making one. Or, of course, just google “green smoothies” and start looking around!) […]
95.
Gary Mccowan | August 19, 2011 at 9:38 am
I was just searching for this information for some time. After six hours of continuous Googleing, at last I got it in your site. I wonder what is the lack of Google strategy that do not rank this type of informative web sites in top of the list. Usually the top sites are full of garbage
96.
Weightloss | October 24, 2011 at 3:08 am
For Exculsive Weightloss Information Please Checkout Our Website
97.
Raw Food | August 16, 2012 at 2:38 am
Ok I know I am late, very late but his sounds totally fun. I started my raw food diet over 2 months ago. Green smoothies for breakfast is my favorite. I have so much energy and seriously one big glass consumption lasts me till 1pm.
98.
Aidan | October 30, 2012 at 3:36 pm
I think this is one of the most vital info for me. And i am glad reading your article.
But want to remark on few general things, The website style is perfect, the articles is really nice : D.
Good job, cheers
99.
stokolan skin care cream | May 18, 2013 at 12:57 pm
Here are a few tips to help prevent and quickly clear up acne breakouts using natural, organic skin
care products:1) Wash your face gently two times per
day with warm water and a mild soap such as a goats milk soap.
The term natural means only pure ingredients are used directly from nature
as opposed to synthetic ingredients and organic products
simply means that the molecule comprises of carbon and natural skin care products have no boundaries with regards to organic or natural products.
Limejuice can also be a helpful skin aid.
100.
cibtalwwoexa | June 12, 2013 at 9:20 pm
wqfodtntxogs
101.
txhpqbwvrfhn | June 12, 2013 at 10:59 pm
faakdxrbiquv
102.
contoh toko hadiah ulang tahun buat cewek | June 14, 2013 at 7:04 pm
Somebody essentially help to make significantly posts I’d state. That is the very first time I frequented your web page and thus far? I surprised with the analysis you made to make this particular submit incredible. Excellent activity!
103.
goodgame empire hack | July 13, 2013 at 5:46 am
Your style is so unique compared to other people I have read stuff from.
Many thanks for posting when you’ve got the opportunity, Guess I’ll just book mark this blog.
104. Spinach Fruit Smoothies? BARF!!! | deliciousbaked - | July 26, 2013 at 2:59 am
[…] one of my Facebook friends mentioned she was participating in a 30 Day Green Smoothie Challenge. I thought I’d check it out and decided to try them by kicking up my smoothies a notch with the […]
105.
healthy tips | July 30, 2013 at 4:45 pm
Touche. Great arguments. Keep up the great effort.
106.
running | July 31, 2013 at 8:22 am
Hmm it appears like your site ate my first comment
(it was super long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I had written and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog.
I as well am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to the whole thing. Do you have any helpful hints for beginner blog writers? I’d genuinely appreciate
it.
107.
Goodgame Empire Free Coins | January 2, 2014 at 1:09 pm
Effective Clash of clans Secrets – A Background
108.
flaxseed oil arthritis | March 17, 2014 at 2:45 am
May I simply say what a relief to discover someone that genuinely knows what
they’re discussing over the internet. You actually realize how to bring an issue to
light and make it important. More and more people have to check this
out and understand this side of your story.
I can’t believe you are not more popular because you certainly possess the gift.
109. Green Smoothie Challenge, Thriving Blog Tour, Free Retreat and more! | March 26, 2014 at 10:52 am
[…] Sara Janssen of Happy Foody’s 2009 Green Smoothie Challenge, with a how-to-make-them […]
110.
pharmacy franchise | April 3, 2014 at 1:14 am
Large amount of foreign buyers are attracted for the Indian marketplace offered the much better
infrastructure and uncomplicated laws. A lot of are
dreaming to have a efficient enterprise but only number of of them has their success story to share.
When considering buying a franchise, you should understand franchise agreements and how they work.
111.
how to bowl fast with tape ball | May 6, 2014 at 3:47 am
Excellent site. Plenty of useful info here.
I am sending it to some friends ans also sharing in delicious.
And of course, thanks for your effort!
112.
Natural Cleanse Plus And Garcinia XT | July 7, 2014 at 6:30 pm
I’ll immediately grasp your rss as I can’t find your e-mail subscription hyperlink or newsletter service.
Do you have any? Please let me know in order that I may subscribe.
Thanks.
113.
google | August 1, 2014 at 7:20 am
I like what you guys tend to be up too. This kind of clever work and
coverage! Keep up the wonderful works guys I’ve added you guys to my
blogroll.
114.
omega juicer strainer | September 21, 2014 at 7:43 am
Hurrah! After all I got a website from where I know how
to iin fact get helpful facts concerning my study and knowledge.
115.
car accident yesterday | September 28, 2014 at 3:20 pm
Fantastic beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend yohr website, how could i subscribe for a blog
web site? The account helped me a acceptable deal.
I had been tiny bbit acquainted of this your broadcast offered bright clear idea