Best Smoothie Ingredients for Inflammation and Cancer

A great way to start a new day is by enjoying a delicious smoothie. If you want to give your body an energy boost, stick to whole veggies and fruits. Try and avoid anything that has added sugar in its composition. If smoothies are your thing and you are looking to mix up your morning blend, these are a few suggestions of superfoods to add in the blender. Here are a few ingredients that will pop up your drink’s nutritional value.

• Apricots

Usually, when you say potassium, you think about bananas. You would be amazed to find out that apricots contain more of this mineral. Dietary potassium can lower the blood pressure. Other benefits of apricots would be that a potassium-rich diet can reduce the risk of bone loss and of developing kidney stones.

• Blueberries

Blueberries have a lot of nutrients for their small size. They provide phytonutrients like ellagic and quercetin acid, vitamins and fiber. The acids are very efficient when it comes to the protection they offer against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Quercetin is a big deal in the sports nutrition world because of its numerous benefits.

• Raw Cacao

Everyone loves chocolate. That’s a fact! Raw cacao turns your smoothie in a delicious milkshake while keeping it healthy. The powder goes wonderfully with berries or bananas. Due to its high antioxidant content, raw cacao is a wonder powder. It is also a great source of energy, especially when you are trying to cut down on coffee. Just a tablespoon for one smoothie makes a world of a difference for your health.

• Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits offer an immense dose of vitamin C. Lemons, grapefruits, oranges and limes contain folate, which helps maintain and produce the body’s cells. Vitamin C is the star of the vitamin group because it is essential for collagen and muscle repair. This comes in handy when you are trying to heal a wound.

• Flaxseed

Next time you suffer from inflammation, just add flaxseed to your smoothie. These seeds contain the high amounts of omega-3. Two components of flax, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and lignans, have an amazing effect in assisting the immune system. Flaxseed is highly sensitive and it oxidizes pretty fast, so it is for the best to purchase and grind the seeds before adding them to your smoothie.

• Cruciferous Veggies

Would you like a super smoothie? In this case, look for cauliflower, broccoli, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. All these cruciferous veggies contain immunity-boosting phytonutrients, as well as essential vitamins and folic acid. We recommend you don’t overcook the veggies before you blend them. Too much heat affects their nutritional values and strips them of their phytochemicals and vitamins. Try using frozen vegetables. They will still provide all these benefits and will cool off your drink.

These are just a few ingredients that are great for a smoothie. Before you decide which one is your favorite, make sure to try them all.