Poo Happy Smoothie

Regular bowel movements (BMs) are essential for wellbeing. Did you know that elimination is the final step of detoxification?? After the liver has done all the heavy lifting, processing all the toxins, chemicals, and hormones into water soluble packages, they need to be eliminated via the stool and urine. If you are not pooping enough or eliminating fully, the stool stays stagnant in your colon, and the nicely packaged toxins can be reabsorbed into circulation. This can leave you feeling fatigued, “off”, and generally unwell. 

How many BMs should you have each day?? Generally, 1-3 BMs is considered normal elimination. However, I have found that many of my clients that have only one BM each day, are often still struggling with "hidden" constipation. If you have a small, thin bowel movement then its likely that you are not fully evacuating, and therefore, may be constipated despite having a BM every day. This is especially relevant if this happens despite eating eating a high fiber diet. Clinically, I have found that around 2 BMs per day keeps my clients feeling their best. Also, instead of small, thin stools, they have girthy, long stools, often reporting “Selva, I almost clogged the toilet!” After a full elimination, you should feel fresh, light, and energized...and ready for another nourishing meal! 

If you are struggling with healthy elimination, then try this Poo Happy Smoothie. It is naturally low FODMAP and therefore is a great option for anyone struggling with IBS. The mucilaginous rich fibers from the okra and chia seeds help lubricate the gut while the aloe vera helps sooth and heal the gut lining. Plus, aloe vera juice is also a natural laxative! Pineapple contains protein digesting enzymes, and both lemon and ginger help stimulate motility. And the combination of all the ingredients together, makes you feel like you are in Hawaii. Not only will your belly be happy, but your taste buds too!

Poo Happy Smoothie 💩🍍💩🍍 
Makes two 1 cup servings

Ingredients:
1 med. banana
1 cup frozen pineapple
1/2 cup frozen okra 
1/4 cup Lakewood organic pure aloe vera juice
1-2 tsp chia seeds
Juice of 1 lemon 
1 inch fresh ginger root, peeled/chopped
2 scoops Great Lakes hydrolyzed collagen
2 T organic coconut cream
1/2 cup filtered water
Generous pinch of sea salt

Directions: Blend together until smooth. Divide into 2 servings and drink on empty stomach, either upon waking or before meals. It may take 24 hours after consumption for bowels to move.