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I have been experimenting more with coconut oil and I think I like it. So you may see a few more coconut oil smoothies in the future. It isn’t a staple for most kitchens, but maybe it should be. Coconut oil, said to be “healthiest oil on earth,” is extremely good for you and adds a unique taste you will enjoy. Try and let me know how you like it.

Green Goddess Coconut Smoothie: My Morning Addiction

I rolled out of bed this morning feeling a bit sluggish (late night Netflix, anyone?), and knew exactly what I needed – my go-to green coconut smoothie!

When I first started my smoothie journey, I was super skeptical about putting spinach in my breakfast. I mean, who wants to drink vegetables first thing in the morning? But trust me on this one – you CANNOT taste the spinach in this recipe! The sweetness from the bananas and the richness from the coconut oil completely mask it, while you still get all those amazing nutrients.

Nutrient Breakdown Per Serving

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value	Benefit I've Noticed
Calories	~250	12.5%	Satisfying without heaviness
Protein	4g	8%	Helps maintain muscle
Fiber	5.5g	20%	Improved digestion
Vitamin A	2,813 IU	56%	Brighter skin
Vitamin C	17mg	19%	Fewer winter sniffles
Iron	3mg	17%	More energy throughout day
Calcium	160mg	16%	Stronger nails (unexpected win!)
Potassium	740mg	16%	Less muscle cramping

My Hard-Earned Smoothie Wisdom

After hundreds of mornings making this smoothie, I've learned a few things:

• Freeze your bananas WITHOUT the peel (learn from my early morning frustration!)
• If your blender struggles, add a splash more milk to get things moving
• Blend longer than you think necessary for the smoothest texture
• If you're new to green smoothies, start with one handful of spinach and work your way up
• Drink it right away for the best taste and texture

My Favorite Variations

When I'm feeling adventurous, I jazz up my basic recipe:

• Add half an avocado for extra creaminess (and healthy fats!)
• Toss in a tablespoon of chia seeds for omega-3s (about 2,500mg per tablespoon)
• Swap spinach for kale when I'm feeling brave (more calcium but stronger taste)
• Add a scoop of protein powder after workout days
• Drop in a few mint leaves in summer for a refreshing twist

Smoothie Troubleshooting: Solutions I've Discovered

• Problem: Too thick to blend
• My solution: Add liquid 1 tablespoon at a time. I learned that different blenders need different liquid ratios, and mine needs slightly more than recipes typically call for.

• Problem: Not sweet enough
• My solution: Make sure bananas are spotty before freezing. The starch converts to natural sugar as they ripen, making them naturally sweeter. I've found bananas with about 30% brown spots are perfect.

• Problem: Bits of spinach visible
• My solution: Blend in stages – liquid and spinach first until completely smooth, then add remaining ingredients. This approach breaks down the fibrous greens more effectively.

• Problem: Not filling enough
• My solution: Increase fat content with extra coconut oil or add 1/4 avocado. The satiety from healthy fats made a dramatic difference in keeping me full until lunch.

• Problem: Family members skeptical of green color
• My solution: Start with minimal spinach and gradually increase, or add a handful of blueberries which turns it purple instead of green while still getting the greens benefit!

FAQs From Friends Who've Joined The Smoothie Journey

Isn't that a lot of sugar from the bananas?

While bananas do contain natural sugars (about 14g per medium banana), they come packaged with fiber, which slows absorption. My personal blood glucose monitoring shows a much gentler rise compared to when I eat processed foods with added sugars.

Do you get enough protein?

This particular smoothie provides about 4g of protein per serving. On days I need more (like after workouts), I add a scoop of plant protein powder or a tablespoon of hemp seeds, which adds an additional 9-10g. I've found this flexibility works better for me than having the same amount every day.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but with limitations. I've found it keeps well in a sealed jar for up to 12 hours in the refrigerator. The texture does change slightly, becoming thicker, so I sometimes add a splash of milk before drinking if it's been stored. For busy weeks, I prep “smoothie packs” with all ingredients except liquid stored in freezer bags.

Will this help with specific health goals?

Rather than making promises, I share my personal experience: consistent daily smoothies have been associated with my improved energy, better digestion, and clearer skin. The research on green vegetables and fruit consumption supports these observations, but everyone's body responds differently.

I've found that starting my day with a smoothie sets a positive tone. When I begin with something nourishing, I tend to make better food choices throughout the day.