In a recent Instagram post, actor Soha Ali Khan shared a special New Year's gift for her followers: a morning green juice recipe aimed at enhancing gut health and immunity. This beverage, crafted by functional nutritionist Nidhi Behl, is not marketed as a detox but as a gentle daily support system for the body.
Recipe and Ingredients
The green juice combines a variety of nutrient-rich ingredients to promote overall wellness. Here is the detailed recipe as shared by Khan:
Ingredients
- ½ carrot
- ½ cucumber
- 2 stalks of celery
- ¼ cup coconut water
- 1½ tsp chia seeds, soaked overnight
- 1 small piece dragon fruit, cubed
- ⅛ tsp fresh grated ginger
- A handful of coriander leaves
- 1 handful mung bean sprouts, lightly steamed
- 1½ tsp hemp seeds
- 1 handful baby greens, lettuce, or microgreens (rotate these)
Directions
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Add extra coconut water for a thinner consistency if desired.
Benefits and Usage
Khan explained that she typically consumes this juice after breakfast and before lunch. She noted, "I usually have this after breakfast and before lunch and find it helps with digestion, hormone balance, and sustained energy — especially on mornings that feel heavy or sluggish." She also advised starting slowly, rotating ingredients, and listening to one's body to avoid discomfort.
Expert Insights
Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at Shree Balaji Medical College in Chennai, provided a professional perspective on the juice's benefits. She emphasized that it offers gentle daily support rather than direct hormonal balancing.
Supports Gut Health
The juice includes hydrating elements like cucumber, celery, and coconut water, which aid in electrolyte balance and smooth digestion. Fibre from chia seeds, hemp seeds, and vegetables helps improve stool consistency and fosters a healthier gut microbiome, potentially reducing bloating over time. Ginger adds further digestive support by easing gastric irritation and improving motility.
Improves Hormonal Balance
Deepalakshmi clarified that the drink indirectly supports hormonal health. "The combination of fibre, healthy fats, and plant protein can help stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce sharp glucose spikes, which plays a key role in maintaining insulin balance," she explained. This, in turn, influences energy, appetite, and mood. By lowering inflammation through ingredients like greens, coriander, and ginger, the juice may promote more stable hormonal signalling, though these effects are subtle and require consistent consumption.
Important Considerations
While the green juice can be a beneficial addition to a wellness routine, Deepalakshmi cautioned that it should not replace meals, medical advice, or treatment for diagnosed hormonal issues. For individuals with conditions like IBS, sensitive digestion, or thyroid problems, she recommended starting slowly and rotating ingredients to prevent discomfort. Overall, the drink is best viewed as a daily nourishment tool that complements other healthy lifestyle habits.
Disclaimer: This article is based on public information and expert insights. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new health routine.
