Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie
I shared this super easy, anti-inflammatory smoothie on IG a few weeks ago and had tons of questions.
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I’ve been on a search for the most inflammation fighting foods possible for several years whenever I have a big flair up of pain in my body. My loving mother genetically handed me “Degenerative Disc Disease” which causes chronic, mostly dull pain throughout my spine and back, usually in my lower back.
In early 2020 after bloodwork, I learned that I also classify as having borderline Rheumatoid Arthritis.
From what my Internist told me, there are 3 markers of inflammation in our blood that denote RA. One of these being the “rheumatoid factor”; a normal level is 14 and mine number was a 26. All of this said, I have had to learn to give my body the exercise and rest it needs verses the exercise and (lack of) rest I feel like.
Listening to my body is something I’m still learning, but I know it’s crucial to lowering this chronic inflammation I carry around in my body.
If you are battling inflammation in your body, I urge you to look at what you’re consuming every single day, and start taking note of what makes you feel worse.
Here are a few notes about the FOUR ingredients in this smoothie, and the directions follow.
If you are curious about any of these terms, Google is your friend!!!!! The world wide webz is my main learning tool, friends.
Or hit me up on Instagram. I love geeking out over health & wellness.
Anti-inflammatory Smoothie
Cherries: incredibly nutrient-dense including fiber, vitamin C & potassium, rich in anti-oxidants (fight against disease & damage causing molecules in the body), studies show they boost exercise recovery
Blueberries: incredibly nutrient-dense including fiber, rich in anti-oxidants (fight against disease & damage causing molecules in the body)
Spinach: aids digestion through lots of insoluble fiber (helps other food pass through the digestive system). Incredibly high in vitamins A, C & K, iron, & folic acid.
Coconut water: a great natural, electrolyte alternative. High in nutrients such as fiber & vitamin C. Said to be anti-oxidative as well.
Directions
1. Blend 1 C. frozen blueberries, 1 C. frozen cherries, 1 handful baby spinach, 10-12 (2 cups-ish) ounces of coconut water in a blender or food processor.
2. I recommend using a high-powered blender for smoothies such as a Ninja or Vitamix. It really makes a difference in the texture of your smoothie.
3. Drink this anti-inflammatory smoothie on an empty stomach as your first meal of the day to encourage absorption of all the vitamins and minerals.
