3 Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipes That I Love

I purchased a juicer six months ago. Since then, it has been collecting dust under my kitchen cabinet. It seemed easy enough to use, and it was, but I soon learned that juicing can get quite expensive.

I had read so many great articles and found so many yummy recipes about juices with anti-inflammatory benefits. I was pretty hyped. So I sucked it up and spent the money.

Psoriatic arthritis and inflammation

Research has demonstrated that psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system is triggered, begins a cascade of inflammatory responses, and attacks healthy tissues in the joints.

As I sat down to write this article, I realized that not everyone has a juicer collecting dust under their kitchen cabinet. So, I decided to whip out my handy-dandy blender instead and try some delicious smoothie recipes that provided almost the same benefits as a juice.

The results were surprising. I included one juice in my daily regimen for a month. I felt better mentally and found that it even helped clear up my skin and even eased my psoriatic arthritis symptoms, just a little.

What are the benefits of juicing and smoothies?

Whether you decide to juice or whip up a refreshing smoothie, the benefits are similar. In the case of juicing, the juicer takes the ingredients (typically vegetables and fruits) and removes only the juice from the produce.

This leaves you with a greater concentration of nutrients per ounce and maximum absorption of nutrients. Basically, you get all the healthy stuff from the ingredients without having to munch on an entire package of celery and kale.

Blending smoothies provide you with similar benefits. If made with the correct ingredients, smoothies are packed chock full of protein and nutrients as well. They also help with food cravings. Which is why I try to start my day with one. By adding ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, or berries, they can also help decrease psoriatic inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory smoothie recipes

Our body's inflammation and joint paint can create excess inflammation just due to physical stress, so it is even more important for us to consume anti-inflammatory foods. Fight inflammation in the most delicious with these easy anti-inflammatory recipes!

Banana turmeric smoothie

Here's why I love this smoothie: not only is it bright and fun but the turmeric has amazing anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is always a go-to for me when I'm feeling my PsA. And, did you know that by adding a little black pepper, it can increase the benefits of turmeric by 2000%!?

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen ripe banana, broken into chunks
• ½ to 1 cup dairy-free unsweetened coconut milk beverage
• 2 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• Pinch black pepper

Directions: Place the frozen fruit, ½ cup milk beverage, coconut milk, vanilla (to taste), turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in your blender and puree until smooth. Add more milk beverage to thin, if desired.

Spinach avocado smoothie

Avocados are rich in anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help lubricate joints and further relieve joint pains. And I mean, who doesn't love avocados?

Ingredients:

• 1 cup on nonfat plain yogurt
• 1 cup of fresh spinach
• 1/4 avocado
• 1 frozen banana
• 2 tablespoons of water
• 1 teaspoon of honey

Directions: Combine yogurt, spinach, banana, avocado, water, and honey in a blender. Puree until smooth.

Pineapple-Turmeric Infused Water

Okay, so this isn't really a smoothie but if you want to skip the fuss and still reap the benefits, this one is for you. Again, turmeric is a go-to for me when I'm feeling a little inflamed and achy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 slices fresh pineapple (or about ¼ cup frozen chunks)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon raw honey

Directions: Add all ingredients to a blender, and blend until smooth. Sip and enjoy it!

Sip, sip, hooray!

Adding anti-inflammatory foods into the diet is great for those who live with psoriatic arthritis and the stress it puts on our bodies on a daily basis. Happy sipping!