The Ultimate Anti-inflammatory Smoothie

Even though the inflammation is a natural protective mechanism that is helping the body to repair tissue injury, ongoing stress or allergy, in some chronic conditions the body unsuccessfully tries to stop the inflammation. Chronic inflammation is connected with many diseases in the modern medicine and is known for worsening their symptoms. One explanation for that situation is accelerated aging, as well as increased risk of coronary diseases, cancer and strokes, and the other explanation is that inflammation causes the process. The inflammation rifts within the body by increasing oxidative activity which is causing accelerated erosion.

Sometimes it is not easy to find all the causes of inflammation, but it’s easier and healthier to use the available foods you have in your home, that will help you reduce inflammation without the need of your body to pay the heavy price for extended use of drugs. You can achieve this by preparing this tea or the smoothie below and the anti – inflammatory foods in your menu.

Ginger

Ginger on a daily basis can definitely help those that are suffering from arthritis pain in the knees. Gingerols are very powerful anti – inflammatory substances contained in the ginger. In various researches of rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, these substances have been tested. The people that participated in the studies reported improving agility and movement, a gradual reduction of pain, and reduction in swelling when using ginger on a daily basis.

Chia seeds

The chia seeds are very nutritious and high in omega – 3 fatty acids, which are responsible for metabolic processes that help in the fight against inflammation. A recent research conducted in the University of Maryland Medical Center, showed that omega – 3 fatty acids may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and reduce inflammation. If you cannot find chia seeds, you can use ground walnuts or flaxseed instead.

Green tea

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the main polyphenol in green tea. Scientific studies suggest that green tea polyphenols and EGCG have anticancer and anti – inflammatory properties.

Berries

The polyphenol compounds found in berries are claimed to have anti – inflammatory activity in humans. Anthocyanins are among the most notable polyphenols in berries, and they are responsible for their distinctive colors of purple, blue and red. Berries have been studied many times for their antioxidant properties, and preclinical data reveals that it also has important effects on inflammatory processes in the body.

Dark Leafy Greens

Having a chronic inflammatory stress component can be characterized by low magnesium levels that have been associated with numerous pathological conditions. Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are one of the best food sources for magnesium. Spinach, kale and other leafy greens also have high concentrations of vitamins that fight disease. Specifically vitamin E which has anti – inflammatory properties. The other antioxidants that are found in dark leafy greens are important components of a diet that is used for combating the inflammation.

Coconut oil

A study in the February 2010 issue of “Pharmaceutical Biology” found hat the lauric acid in coconut oil has anti – inflammatory properties, the virgin coconut oil — which is processed at low heat without the usage of chemicals — reduced paw and ear swelling in rats, while also fighting chronic inflammation. In another research, researchers have successfully extracted the unique antioxidants from the virgin coconut oil and injected them into arthritis induced rats. They found that the unique coconut oil antioxidants reduced inflammation that was connected with arthritis many times more effectively than any pharmaceutical drug ever used.

Anti inflammatory smoothie

• 1 cup of 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.

Source: healthyandnaturalworld.com