The Best Anti-Inflammatory Protein Smoothie

Make the best anti-inflammatory protein smoothie with drink wholesome. It is made with delicious, easy to digest ingredients.

Make the best anti inflammatory protein smoothie with drink wholesome.

Are you looking for anti-inflammatory foods to add to your protein shake or smoothie? If so, you have come to the right place!

The way you build your daily shake or smoothie makes all the difference. That is, the ingredients that you choose can inflame the body and contribute to weight gain, or fight inflammation and provide relief to symptoms like joint pain and low energy. 

Let us dive deeper into some of the best and unconventional anti-inflammatory foods to add to a protein shake or smoothie. 

Smoothies 101

Your biology is profoundly unique. Your smoothie and nutrition should be too.

It pains me to read food journal after food journal and see: morning smoothie = cup of yogurt + fruit +  milk + ice cubes OR frozen banana + sweetener + water (and maybe a little protein powder on a good day).

“A” for effort, but in the end, these smoothies are not very nutrient dense or satisfying. Drinking smoothies like these that are so low in protein, fat, and fiber will leave you feeling hungry and on track for a big energy crash. If you keep this up over time, do not be surprised if your blood sugar starts to go haywire.

Remember, liquid food is easier to digest than solid food, even if the macronutrients are the same. In other words, the blender does most of the work for your gut. It is therefore important that you choose the right blend and dose of ingredients when it comes to your smoothie.

By the way, if you are looking to calm your gut, boost your energy, and knock out annoying chronic symptoms like headaches and joint pain, a properly implemented anti-inflammatory elimination diet is the best first line of defense. 

If you are new to the smoothie game and would like to learn more about constructing a perfectly balanced smoothie, check out this article where I teach you how to make shakes and smoothies the right way.

The Best Smoothie Ingredients

Baobab

Baobab is a tree native to Madagascar. The pulp, leaves, and seeds are available in powder form and make the perfect addition to a smoothie. Baobab is rich in magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc. The high fiber content of baobab can help improve satiety and regulate bowel movements. 

Amla Berry

Amla Berry is an all-star, ancient berry from India. Research has shown that this versatile superfood has an abundance of antioxidants that help repair oxidative damage to our bodies (think stress and sun burns). Fun fact – one Amla Berry has as much Vitamin C as 20 oranges!

Cinnamon

Cinnamon tastes great, but did you know that its also great for stabilizing blood sugar and fighting disease? Plus, if you make a smoothie that does not taste the way you had anticipated, 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon can bail you out.

Maca

Maca root powder is one of the best smoothie ingredients if you are looking for an immediate energy boost that does not involve caffeine. Maca is native to Peru and is rich in amino acids, copper, and iron. Bonus – maca can naturally boost mood and balance hormones. 

Raw Honey

Many people love a smoothie that is on the sweeter side. If this sounds like you, consider adding a teaspoon or two of organic raw honey to your smoothie. Raw honey is a great source of antioxidants and phytonutrients. 

Want to learn more about how a pro-sports dietitian makes smoothies every day for her athletes? Use this link to get her tips on the 5 biggest mistakes to avoid when making your smoothie. 

Looking to make an anti-inflammatory smoothie? Check out the recipe below!

Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipe

-1 serving of drink wholesome protein powder of choice 

-2 tsp maca powder

-1/2 tbsp chia seeds

-2 tsp cinnamon

-1 frozen banana

-1 tbsp cacao nibs

-1 date OR 1 teaspoon of raw honey

-10-12 oz dairy-free milk

Instructions

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. Adjust the amount of liquid according to your preferences.

Recipe Notes

This anti-inflammatory protein smoothie is best used as a meal replacement or post workout recovery shake! It also makes for an energizing breakfast on the go. Now that you know the top anti-inflammatory foods to add to a protein shake or smoothie, have at it!

Make the best anti-inflammatory protein smoothie with drink wholesome.