The Ultimate Anti-inflammatory Smoothie

August 14, 2014

While inflammation is a natural protective mechanism and repair of the body to overcome tissue injury, allergy or ongoing stress, in chronic conditions the body keeps trying unsuccessfully to turn off the inflammation. Chronic inflammation is nowadays linked to many diseases and is known for worsening their symptoms. One explanation is that inflammation causes the process and accelerated aging, as well as increases the risk of coronary diseases, strokes and cancer. The inflammation causes accelerated erosion and rifts within the body by increasing oxidative activity.

Sometimes it is not easy to find all the causes of inflammation, but it’s easier to use available foods in every home to reduce inflammation without the heavy price the body pays for prolonged use of drugs. You can do this by making this tea or the smoothie below to add anti-inflammatory foods to your menu.

Berries

Berries contain polyphenol compounds claimed to have anti-inflammatory activity in humans. Among the most notable polyphenols in berries are anthocyanin’s, that are responsible for their distinctive colors of red, blue, and purple. Berries have been studied widely for their antioxidant properties, and preclinical data suggest important effects on inflammatory processes in the body.

Further reading: You can find more useful information about berries in my e-book The Healing Berry Guide which will teach you how to transform your health with berries.

Dark Leafy Greens

Low magnesium level has been associated with numerous pathological conditions characterized as having a chronic inflammatory stress component. One of the best food sources for magnesium are dark leafy greens (like kale and spinach). Kale, spinach and other leafy greens also have high concentrations of vitamins that fight disease. Specifically vitamin E that has anti-inflammatory properties. The other antioxidants that are found in dark leafy greens are important components of an inflammation-fighting diet.

Further reading: read my previous article on how to detox your body with these 8 leafy greens.

Ginger

If you suffer from arthritis pain in the knees, consuming ginger on a daily basis can definitely help. Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory substances called gingerols. These have been tested in various research of rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The participants in the studies reported a gradual reduction of pain, improving agility and movement and reduction in swelling when using ginger regularly.

Further reading: find here how to use ginger as a medicine for great health.

Coconut oil

The lauric acid in coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, a study in the February 2010 issue of “Pharmaceutical Biology” found virgin coconut oil — which is processed at low heat without chemicals — reduced ear and paw swelling in rats, while also inhibiting chronic inflammation. In another research, researchers extracted the antioxidants unique to virgin coconut oil from the oil and injected them into rats with induced arthritis. They found that the unique coconut oil antioxidants reduced inflammation associated with arthritis more effectively than current pharmaceutical drugs.

Further reading: read the article about the many health benefits of coconut oil.

Chia seeds

These very nutritious seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are responsible for metabolic processes that help fight inflammation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. If you cannot find chia seeds, use ground flaxseed or walnuts instead.

Further reading: Find here 10 amazing reasons you should eat chia seeds. Chia seeds are are one of the superfoods mentioned in the e-book about superfoods which is part of the Natural Health Revolution Program. This program will help you to achieve your health, nutrition and weight loss goals.

Green tea

The main polyphenol in green tea is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Scientific studies suggest that EGCG and green tea polyphenols have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Further reading: read about 8 amazing health benefits of green tea and why you should drink more of it.

Anti inflammatory smoothie

1 cup berries of your choice (such as blueberries, raspberries, cranberries)
1 compressed cup of leafy greens of your choice (such as kale, spinach)
2 inch (5 cm) piece of ginger
1 tablespoon unrefined coconut oil
1 teaspoon, or more, of fresh chia seeds
Green tea
A little bit of honey, maple syrup, or stevia to sweeten

Directions

Put all ingredients in a blender (add green tea according to your desired consistency). Drink immediately to enjoy the most nutritional benefits.

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