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We love making smoothies! They’re a great way to get protein, fiber and anti-inflammatory benefits in one pretty glass – all things you want to keep your middle from expanding. The base of a good smoothie is fruit. “Fruit is packed with vitamins, nutrients, and fiber,” says Andrea Wise, a Chicago-based trainer and nutrition coach.” But too much of the wrong fruit can sabotage your weight loss goals. Wise says to avoid calorie-heavy dried fruits, sugary mango and sneaky sugar grapes. Stick with high-fiber apples; water filled watermelon (duh!); antioxidant and fiber-filled berries; and stone fruits with a low-sugar content like nectarine, plums and peaches. Try these anti-inflammatory smoothies or use the recipes as inspiration!
Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Protein Smoothie, This Gal Cooks
Enjoy your morning oatmeal in a smoothie. Anti-inflammatory oats provide both protein and fiber to keep your belly feeling full and aid digestion. Additional protein comes from the almond milk and plant-based protein powder. We like chocolate in this recipe since we love eating chocolate-covered bananas and strawberries – the pair of fruits that give the oats sweetness. Tip: The ingredients call for a frozen banana. This will make the smoothie thick and rich. But if you prefer a thinner sip, just grab a ‘naner from the fruit bowl. Or, use an avocado! They’re an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant packed ingredient that thickens the drink to make it feel like a real treat. Avocados are naturally high in unsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins A, C, E, K, and many B vitamins as well as potassium and magnesium. Plus much of it is composed of water and fiber, and both help keep you feeling full.
The Husband Smoothie, Happy Healthy Mama
Don’t let the name fool you: this smoothie is not only for husbands. Or men for that matter! The ladies love it (well, we do!). The protein comes from hulled hemp seeds, which are anti-inflammatory and deliver omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Combine that with the 4 servings of fruit and 2 servings of veggies and it makes a high-fiber smoothie that is incredibly nutritionally balanced. You’ll see the recipe calls for frozen wild blueberries and we highly suggest you stick with that if possible. Wild blueberries are smaller than what you’re used to but deliver higher amounts of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits than the plumper farm-grown variety.
Almond Pineapple Smoothie, Atkins Nutritionals
Eating low-calorie, anti-inflammatory snacks like almonds help people achieve weight loss goals. Why? They have fiber and protein, a combo that keeps you full for the longest period of time and on the fewest calories. Adding them to a smoothie is a nice alternative when you need more to eat than just a handful of nuts. We love the tropical taste of pineapple. It has potassium – the number one enemy of belly bloat– plus lots of enzymes to ease digestion. Word of warning: always use fresh pineapple. Avoid the canned cubes because they’re loaded with excess sugar and that’s exactly what you’re trying to void when chasing away those last 5 pounds.
There are two unusual anti-inflammatory ingredients in this exotic smoothie: cauliflower and turmeric. Cauliflower is so incredibly versatile and healthy. And to think you’ve only been eating it as a side dish! It’s in this smoothie because it’s anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants. Cauliflower is also packed with Vitamin C and K, and it aids in detoxification and healthy digestion. You’re not going to get an overwhelming cauliflower taste because of the turmeric. It’s a spice that contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that will help prevent belly fat. It also gives the smoothie a glowing, golden hue. Try it ground and form a jar or buy the root fresh. Oh, and the protein? It’s deliciously supplied by the yogurt.
[Photos: Shutterstock]
