Anti-Inflammatory Green Smoothie

This is my smoothie of L.I.F.E. (Low Inflammatory Foods Everyday). It’s an Anti-Inflammatory Green Smoothie designed to support your body’s natural defense against inflammation while boosting antioxidant intake. 

Dr. Fuhrman, the inventor of the “nutritarian” diet, created a L.I.F.E. smoothie recipe with the following ingredients:

• 8 oz DGLV (dark green leafy vegetables) 
• 1 cup berries
• ½ banana
• 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed (or chia seeds)
• 1 Tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ cup soy milk
• ½ cup water

Studies showed that daily consumption of this smoothie significantly lowered inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein within just 7 days and increased beta-carotene levels (an indicator of improved antioxidant status). 

My version is slightly upgraded! For instance, I swapped bananas for more strawberries. Bananas contain the enzyme polyphenol oxidase, which can break down beneficial antioxidants in smoothies and cause browning. Instead of cocoa powder, I added ginger and cinnamon to further enhance the smoothie’s anti-inflammatory and gut-supportive properties. 

Also fun fact: blending spinach increases beta-carotene absorption by up to 86% compared to eating it whole!

Not gonna lie, I have a hard time fully drinking this smoothie (the dark leafy greens are strong!) but it’s a super easy way to make sure you’re getting enough nutrients in for the day. Maybe add in a date or blend it with acai to make it more tolerable haha

Remember that maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet is crucial for long term health, aging, and disease prevention!

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