Purple deliciousness: Anti-Inflammatory Blueberry Protein Smoothie
I’m in the slow process of healing from a peculiar foot injury, one that caused some muscle and tendon damage. Although I’m getting better (yay!), my foot feels particularly inflamed and swollen after a busy day. (I do try to take it easy—honest!) This usually calls for some downtime on the couch—whether I’m ready for it or not. All of this couch time has taught me that I do have a lot of energy—and I’d like to use it—so the sooner I can heal, the better. Not that I’m impatient or anything!
To aid the healing process, I’ve been consciously incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into my diet. In fact, I made this blueberry protein smoothie with healing and muscle repair in mind! Blueberries, fresh ginger root, and chia seeds are some of my favorite anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich foods. Together, they make a sweet and zesty blend—doesn’t ginger give just about everything a little touch of something divine? Add cinnamon and nutmeg, and you have one delicious anti-inflammatory concoction that also happens to be low-glycemic.
Bonus: anti-inflammatory foods also combat acne. Score!
Anti Inflammatory Blueberry Protein Smoothie
Ingredients:
(Serves 1)
1 cup non-dairy milk (I used unsweetened almond milk)
1 scoop vegan protein powder (I use soy-free, hemp-based, unsweetened powders)
1 generous handful fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tsp. peeled gingerroot
1 tbsp. chia seeds
1 tsp. vanilla extract
pinch of cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
stevia to taste (optional)
**Optional add-ins: maca powder, acai powder, cacao powder, superfood powder blend, spoonful of vegan nut butter, handful of spinach, a few cubes of ice—get creative!**
Directions:
In a high-speed blender, blend ingredients until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little bit more vegan milk.
One beautiful, post-workout recoup drink coming up!
Photos: Mary Hood
