This is the most potent anti-inflammatory smoothie recipe I could concoct based on my current knowledge, research, and ingredients on hand. Whether you’re battling a health issue (many of which inflammation is at the root of) or sore from an intense workout, reducing inflammation through a delicious smoothie is easier than most other modalities.
There are a handful of spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties, four of which I included in this recipe. Turmeric, a new smoothie favorite of mine, ginger, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon, the first spice I began blending into smoothies years ago. Not only do these spices provide a wide array of health benefits, they imbue your smoothies with a wonderful flavor…if used in the right proportions.
Lately, I’ve been adding more herbs into my smoothies for the health benefits and taste. Mint is another one of my favorites because of the subtle flavor it imparts and the memories it conjures up of the mint chocolate chip ice cream I use to love as a kid. In my experience mint blends well into most smoothies.
Oh, how I’ve come to love my little nutrient dense chia seeds. They’re a great addition to many dishes, but perhaps best utilized in gel form to provide that signature smoothie creaminess.
With all the chocolate smoothies I make, vanilla is a nice change of pace. Native to the tropical rain forests of Central America, vanilla is one of the more popular spices, now used around the world.
This is one of my favorite post workout smoothies. I never feel like spending too long in the kitchen after an exhausting workout, which is why I usually choose to whip up a smoothie in 5 minutes or less. I also like to make a smoothie before heading off to the gym and drink half before and after.