Catherine’s Immune-System Boosting Smoothie

I don’t drink a lot of smoothies in the winter, but this one goes on repeat during cold, flu, and covid season since it’s high in vitamin c and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Ginger and turmeric are two of the most powerful medicinal herbs that have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Studies have shown that they both have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling in the body. Additionally, ginger and turmeric are known for their immune-boosting properties that can help protect the body against infections and diseases.

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are an excellent source of vitamin C. This essential vitamin plays a vital role in the body’s immune system by helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. Since the body does not produce vitamin C, it is essential to consume it daily through foods like citrus fruits. Incorporating these superfoods into your diet can help improve your overall health and well-being.

I prefer using fresh ginger and turmeric because the taste is more powerful, and they are readily available at Whole Foods and some other grocers, but if you have trouble finding it you could also substitute the dried spices.

I don’t measure but here’s a rough estimate of my most recent smoothie (makes two or three servings):

• 1-2 Navel Oranges, peeled (Cara Cara oranges were on sale, so I used one navel, one Cara Cara which is why it’s pink)
• 1 lemon (I have a Vitamix so I cut the ends off, and put the rest in [rind, seeds, and flesh]. If you have something other than a Vitamix/Blendtec you’ll want to peel your lemon. If you’re eating the rind you’ll want to get organic lemons)
• ~1 inch of fresh ginger
• ~1 inch of fresh turmeric (available at Whole Foods)
• ~1/2 TBS of black peppercorns (or black pepper) to help with turmeric curcumin absorption
• 1 pinch of salt or LMNT
• ~1 cup of coconut water (more or less depending on your preferred thickness- you could also use water or any milk but as a hot yogi I like the extra nutrients that coco water provides)

   

Adjust to your tastes! If it’s too potent for you, you could add a little bit of honey, stevia, another orange, or your preferred sweetener! You could also add protein powder to this recipe, or substitute the coconut water for your favorite milk. I find that the coconut water typically adds enough sweetness for me but ginger can be pretty potent if you add too much.

Put all ingredients into your blender and blend until it’s your desired thickness. For my Vitamix, this takes ~30-60 seconds.

This could stain your blender if you leave it in the plastic (oops), so I recommend putting it into glass containers if you care!