If you’re living with joint pain or osteoarthritis, it’s widely acknowledged that symptoms can be alleviated by tinkering with your diet so that mealtimes include ingredients packed with anti-inflammatory properties.
Finding recipes that get the taste buds tingling is the easiest way to switch to a healthy diet. Our latest arthritis-friendly recipe is a berry smoothie. Berries are jam-packed with great-for-joint health properties. In fact, most berries have been shown to decrease arthritis-related inflammatory markers. And let’s be honest, smoothies are delicious, quick to make and can be taken anywhere to drink on the go.
Keep reading for the full recipe and let us know on Facebook if you try it at home.
Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
Did you know that gram for gram strawberries have more vitamin C in them than oranges? What’s more, strawberries contain anthocyanins which are believed to have anti-inflammatory effects. Perfect for those living with joint pain.
Blackberries gain much of their colour from something called anthocyanins which numerous studies have shown can greatly reduce inflammation in the body.
Cinnamon is packed with both antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. In fact, studies have shown it has the highest antioxidant properties of all the 26 spices. One antioxidant in particular called Catechin has been shown to inhibit cartilage breakdown. So it’s a must-have for those looking to slow arthritis or just maintain healthy joints.
It is universally accepted that most of us do not get enough vitamin D, especially if you live in sunny old England. Thankfully, almonds are a fantastic source of vitamin D and, depending on the brand you buy, a serving of almond milk can offer up to 25% of your suggested daily vitamin D allowance.
Serves: 2 Prep Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
200g strawberries (frozen or fresh)
100g blackberries (fresh or frozen)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 banana
300 ml almond milk
125g coconut yoghurt (Greek yoghurt if preferred)
Instructions:
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour evenly between two glasses or into a travel mug to have on the go.
