Iris is now sixteen weeks old, and my body is beginning to feel familiar again. I have to admit that I had not anticipated the level of sheer physicality I would experience during this time. I have become acutely aware of the needs and rhythms of this tiny body, barely separated from my own, while at the same time rediscovering my own form and all the changes that have occurred since the birth in order to keep this little being alive!

It’s a little nonsensical then, that at this time, when my body is working harder than ever before, that thoughts of good nutrition have rather gone out of the window. The smoothies, juices, soups and stews that usually grace our table have often been replaced by heaped bowls of pasta, peanut butter on toast, and more than a few biscuits… 🙄

Something had to be done, and as time is still pretty precious around here, a juice seemed a good way to restart our usually healthy lifestyle. After relying on so many carbohydrates recently drinking something so fresh and green was nothing short of delightful! It’s obviously wishful thinking but even with the first sip I could imagine my cells responding positively and felt lighter than I have for weeks.

The juice itself is a lovely blend of vegetables and fruits that create a drink that packs a real punch in the health stakes without ever feeling too worthy (no kale smoothies here). The tartness of the apples and lime juice cuts through the vegetal nature of the celery, fennel and cucumber, while the ginger provides just a little spice.

So on to the recipe before the baby wakes up!

Serves 2

Ingredients

2 Granny Smith apples

1 thumb sized piece of ginger

2 sticks of celery

Half a cucumber

Quarter of a small fennel bulb

Juice of half a lime

Method

1. Juice the apples, cucumber, fennel and ginger using an electric juicer and then stir in the lime juice.
2. Allow the juice to settle for a few seconds and then skim off any scum that gathers on the surface.
3. Divide between two glasses and serve immediately.