Lower Inflammation to Reduce Pain
Video by Dr. Justin Thompson
Do you struggle getting your daily fruits and veggies in? Or perhaps you have noticed that when your diet is fluctuating, so are your aches and pains? This correlation is often related to inflammation levels in the body. One way to lower inflammation in the body while simultaneously ensuring enough fruits and veggies is through smoothies! This smoothie recipe is yet another simple and short recipe! It is inspired by one of my favorite fruits to enjoy on a hot summer day, pineapple! All you need for this smoothie is frozen pineapples, spinach, an avocado, and water or coconut milk! We have stressed the many health benefits of spinach and avocado before so in this recipe we will focus on the health benefits to pineapples! Below is a few of the extraordinary health benefits of pineapple backed by research. Because pineapple is so sweet and tasty when standing alone, it is the perfect combination to mask the avocado and spinach tastes. This smoothie hits the spot after a great workout in the summer! As always, we are here to help in any way we can. We recognize that the healing process must be facilitated from the inside and outside. That is why we stress eating well! It helps your body heal while helping your body get to a physiological homeostasis. What we consume is just a portion of what determines our health outcomes, so reach out to us if you want help putting the puzzle together. We are here for you, and your family and friends!
Research
“Antioxidants help prevent oxidation in your body, which may help ward off inflammation that can lead to cancer and other chronic diseases”
“Bromelain (found in pineapples) has been shown to represent a crucial role as an antiedematous, fibrinolytic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, anticoagulant, and antithrombotic agent”
“In addition, it may have beneficial analgesic-type properties that can help to heal and minimize post-surgical pain and swelling. Furthermore, bromelain has been shown to improve recovery after tissue damage and boost drug absorption, particularly for antibiotics”
Recipe
- 2-3 generous handful of fresh or frozen spinach (can sub with arugula or kale)
- 3-5 cups of frozen pineapple
- 1 whole fresh or frozen avocado
- 2-3 cups of water or almond/coconut milk (optional based on desired flavor and consistency)
- Daily dose of essential Nutrients
- 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder (optional)
Resources
Neha K, Haider MR, Pathak A, Yar MS. Medicinal prospects of antioxidants: A review. Eur J Med Chem. 2019 Sep 15;178:687-704. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.06.010. Epub 2019 Jun 13. PMID: 31228811.
Varilla C, Marcone M, Paiva L, Baptista J. Bromelain, a Group of Pineapple Proteolytic Complex Enzymes (Ananas comosus) and Their Possible Therapeutic and Clinical Effects. A Summary. Foods. 2021 Sep 23;10(10):2249. doi: 10.3390/foods10102249. PMID: 34681298; PMCID: PMC8534447.
Our Message
Our McKinney Chiropractors, located near West Ridge at the corner of S. Stonebridge Dr. and Eldorado Pkwy., know how to get you out of pain through better movement AND making sure you are getting the proper nutrients. We also teach our patients how to manage their stress for optimal health. When you are looking for a Chiropractor near you, choose one who will not only help lower inflammation to reduce shoulder pain, back pain, neck pain, and headaches but who will also guide you to living a healthier lifestyle so you can stay out of pain.