Best Anti-Inflammatory Smoothies | 6 Tasty Recipes

This post shares 6 of my best anti-inflammatory smoothies, and tips for better blending.

I've gotten loads of positive feedback surrounding my anti-inflammation posts, along with requests for more content on the topic.

So I've already touched on the top anti-inflammatory foods, apple cider vinegar benefits, foods that cause inflammation and even shared a 5 day anti-inflammatory diet. This got me to thinking...how about one on the best anti-inflammatory smoothies!

What Fruits Are Good for Anti-Inflammatory Smoothies?

The best fruits to reduce inflammation contain antioxidants and powerful bioactive compounds. including the following:

1. Berries: Top of the list! Berries are full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Particular antioxidants called anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory components that can lower your risk of disease. They go great in these high-protein fruit smoothies.
   
2. Watermelon: Lots of lycopene here! Watermelon contains a notable amount of this powerful nutrient, which has antioxidant-like protection.
   
3. Apples: Why do they keep the doctor away? Apples have around 3 grams of fiber, mostly composed of pectin (the soluble fiber). Good bacteria in your gut love this stuff! And a strong gut lining may help protect you from inflammatory compounds.
   
4. Avocados: Ripe with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, magnesium, and fiber, avocados may be helpful for reducing inflammation.
   
5. Oranges: Along with a bright citrus flavor, oranges may add inflammation-reducing nutrients to your smoothies.

Are Blueberries Anti-Inflammatory?

They don't call blueberries a superfood for nothing! Blueberries are full of vitamins and antioxidants.

Of particular note are flavonoids, which are being studied as extremely helpful agents in fighting inflammation.

Best Anti-Inflammatory Smoothies

Here are my top 6 favorite anti-inflammatory smoothies.

1. Blueberry Protein Shake

Blueberries. Need I say more? With so many anti-inflammatory antioxidants, I had to put this blueberry protein smoothie first. Choose this one if you want to stay full for a longer period of time because it has full-fat Greek yogurt, almond milk and protein powder as its protein sources.

2. Pink Power Protein Beet Smoothie

Beets may decrease inflammation because they're packed with betalains! Do you love the color too? You'll find a similar shade in my beet hummus recipe.

3. Kiwi and Kale Smoothie

The combo of the kale with the kiwi is so vibrant and fresh. It also contains almond milk and banana - so I think it makes a great breakfast smoothie.  

4. Green Protein Smoothie

Leafy green veggies are key players in reducing inflammation and also work well in smoothies. Here, I use a frozen banana, peanut butter (because: yum!), coconut milk, and fresh baby spinach along with the vanilla protein powder.

5. Blueberry Muffin Protein Smoothie

This purple jar of goodness is one of my fam's favorites! And is a great choice if you like blueberries, healthy blueberry muffins, sweet treats, and/or protein shakes in general.

6. Caramel Apple Smoothie

This Caramel Apple Smoothie has all the flavors of a caramel apple, packed into a nutritious and healthy fruit smoothie. No caramel involved -- the sweetness actually comes from dates!

More Recipes

Pair your smoothie with some of these recipes:

• 5 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Recipes
• Beet Hummus
• Watermelon Mint Popsicles
• Healthy Spring Roll Recipes