Anti-Inflammatory Pineapple Berry Smoothie

This smoothie is full of anti-inflammatory nutritional benefits and it is one I drink often. It is  banana-free, and not super sweet, but perfectly refreshing and thirst quenching. Even though I no longer suffer with painful fibromyalgia flare-ups I make sure to include daily fruits and vegetables that are rich in anti-inflammatory properties.  I want to make sure that I do all I can to continue fibro-free and eating a diet rich in raw fruits and vegetables is one of the biggest factors.  I always make sure to continue eating in such a way  to help prevent future pain.   The raw food diet is rich with food high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods.  Two of which are in this smoothie: Blueberries and pineapple.

Pineapple contains the proteolytic enzyme Bromelain, which not only helps digestions but also acts as an anti-inflammatory and has similar results of anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.  Bromelain helps reduce swelling and inflammation in the body and has been shown to be particularly beneficial with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel conditions and sinusitis, even injuries such as sprains or strains.  It is also beneficial for breaking down fibrin, a protein that can cause blood clotting. These are just a few of the beneficial nutritional value pineapple has to offer, so make sure to eat up! Pineapple is definitely a staple in my house, love me some juicy pineapple!

Blueberries have been ranked as having one of the highest antioxidant levels of all fruits or vegetables.  They contain phytonutrients called polyphenols.  These polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can play an important role in helping to lessen the inflammatory process associated with chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and age-related cognitive decline.  They are also high in manganese which is important for bone development. Blueberries pack a serious punch as a nutritional powerhouse.  I really try to eat some daily.  If you can’t  fresh blueberries, frozen will still beneficial just make sure they are organic.

The key to GlOWING, vibrant health is eating living vibrant fruits and vegetables.  If you are suffering with a chronic illness or painful condition, I urge you to start increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet.  Start off with adding in a smoothie and salad a day and increase from there.  Take it at a pace that you can succeed on, it’s not a race or a competition but it’s what is going to work for you long term.  If you haven’t already signed up to receive my weekly posts I invite you to do so to make sure to receive weekly tips, health articles and GLOWING recipes to start you on your journey to health. You can find the link at the top of this page.

Feel the GLOW sip by sip and enjoy this refreshing succulent smoothie!

Recipe:

2 cups chopped pineapple

1 cup blueberries

1 1/2 cups coconut milk

3 stalks celery

1/2 lime, juice of

several fresh mint leaves

1 cup ice

Directions:

Blend all ingredients in high-speed blender until smooth.  Pour into a glass and enjoy with lots of love from me!

What’s your favorite smoothie recipe?