One way to stay both healthy and cool this summer is to make your own smoothies. You can get really creative with flavors and make something tailored just for your taste buds. Mixing frozen fruit with non-dairy milk, protein, and spices can give you a well-rounded and filling treat. These are free of three major markers of inflammation: gluten, dairy, and sugar. By sugar, I mean added sugar. Don't be afraid of natural sugar found in fruit.
Here are some of my favorite combinations to blend to get your started!
Citrus Bliss
Fill your cup with frozen pineapple, peaches, and banana: pineapple is full of vitamin C; a great way to support your immune system.
Add in non-dairy milk: unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk are my go-to choices, but you can also use soy, rice, oat, or hemp milk
Aloe water: aloe soothes the digestive tract and alkalizes the body
Coconut water: rich in electrolytes and extremely hydrating
Turmeric: turmeric is anti-inflammatory and is known to protect the heart
Cinnamon: cinnamon has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and immunity boosting abilities
Your choice of protein: ground flax, hemp seeds, chia seeds, or protein powder. Protein in your smoothie will aid in muscle development and assist in maintaining healthy sugar levels. It also helps you feel full/satisfied longer.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup
Fill your cup with frozen banana and pineapple: bananas are a natural source of potassium, which can help prevent cramps, and vitamin B6, which aids in a healthy nervous system.
Add in non-dairy milk of your choice
Scoop of nut butter of your choice: almond butter, peanut butter, tigernut butter, or sunflower seed butter. These butters provide you with fiber and heart-healthy fats.
Teaspoon of cacao powder: cacao is rich in calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants, AND has a delicious chocolate flavor
Cinnamon
Honey: honey is loaded with anti-oxidants and can soothe a sore or scratchy throat
Your choice of protein
Berry-licious
Fill your cup with frozen cherries, strawberries, blueberries and/or blackberries: berries are high in fiber so they can assist in digestion, as well as lower cholesterol and protect against cancer
Add in non-dairy milk of your choice
Aloe water
Coconut water
Honey
Your choice of protein
Bon Appétit!

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