Immune Boost Smoothie

The weather is starting to get a little cooler here in the south, which means it’s back to school time! It’s that time of year with crayons, pencils, and notebook paper…running to different afterschool activities, sports, and clubs! Don’t forget the snotty, runny noses of SCHOOL GERMS! They have already shown up at my house.

Sometimes, we need a little immune boost to get our day started. What better way to get those immune boosting properties than an Immune Boost Smoothie!

Let’s look at the ingredients:

Orange

It is best to use a whole orange (peeled and chopped) to get the benefits of fiber vs using orange juice. You can even add some orange zest (grated orange peel) for added orange flavor and flavonoids for more anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antimicrobial effects. Of course, orange juice has vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant that supports our immune system. Oranges also contain potassium and folate, and minute amounts of calcium, magnesium, vitamin A and B vitamins.

Carrot

Besides a common color of orange, carrots come in other colors like white, yellow, red, and purple. Orange and yellow carrots are a good source of beta carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), fiber, vitamin K1, potassium and antioxidants. These antioxidants, including carotenoids, improve immune function. Carrots also contain vitamin C, vitamin K and many B vitamins as well as fiber.

Celery

Celery contains a compound called apigenin, which can work as an anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antiviral and antioxidant. Celery can also provide small amounts of vitamin K, folate, vitamin A, potassium, and vitamin C.

Ginger Root

Ginger root has been studied and used medicinally in traditional and alternative medicine for many years. Ginger contains a bioactive compound called gingerol that is used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Gingerol can also lower the risk for infections (especially oral bacteria) and may be effective against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Ginger is often used to treat stomach issues like nausea and vomiting, even in pregnancy.

Parsley

This herb is full of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, copper, and folic acid. Parsley contains eugenol, which works as a local anesthetic and antiseptic to prevent gum disease. The high levels of vitamin C (three times that of an orange) provide an immune boost and work as a powerful antioxidant. Quercetin is another compound found in parsley that reduces inflammation.

Turmeric

The active compound in this bright yellow-orange turmeric root is curcumin, which has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It appears the antimicrobial activity is very selective and focused mostly on Gram-positive bacteria like S. aureus, E. coli, and Serratia sp. which can lead to skin infections, urinary tract infections and dental infections. Turmeric is also good for digestive issues, arthritis, and wound healing.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is packed full of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Olive oil blocks the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut and promotes beneficial species (like bifidobacterial). When used for cooking, especially at high temperatures, the olive oil can be oxidized and create free radicals that can undo many of its health benefits. It is best to use olive oil in its raw form – a drizzle on cooked vegetables, salad dressing, or dipping oils.

Together these ingredients are a great start to your day to boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and provide pre-biotic fiber to your gut microbiome.

Are you ready to PIVOT to functional health and wellness?