Most diseases start off with some type of inflammation in the body. It’s your body’s way of saying something is wrong. Whether you suffer from bloating, arthritis and joint pain, or simply want to add healthy habits to your daily routine, this compilation of anti-inflammatory recipes will get you on the right track. Many of these recipes feature key ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and whole fruits and vegetables. These ingredients are great alternatives to processed sugars and pre-made beverages that actually increase inflammation, aggravate join pain and cause digestion problems.
So grab one of these recipes below and take a big gulp!
1. Sunshine Juice
This drink not only keeps inflammation down, it improves digestion, boosts your mood, and makes your taste buds dance without unnecessary added sugars. This beverage would be best enjoyed in the morning for an energy kick, or on a warm, sunny day when you can revel in the healthy goodness.
Ingredients
1 head of romaine lettuce or bunch of kale
1 lemon
1 carrot
2 stalks of celery
1 inch ginger root
½ cucumber
½ apple (optional)
Directions:
Juice all of the above ingredients together and pour over ice in a glass to chill.
Enjoy immediately!
2.) Aloe Vera Nectar
Aloe vera has long been used to bring down inflammation and soothe the heat associated with it. Research has also looked into its efficacy in treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and colitis. Another added plus is that it help alkalize the body to fight off cancer.
Ingredients
1-2 cups water (room temp or hot water are both fine based on preference)
1 lemon, juiced and sliced
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
1 tsp. aloe vera
1 tsp. honey is optional for sweetener and antibacterial properties (omit on sugar-free detox)
1 pinch of mint or basil for digestion or inflammation support (optional)
3.) Turmeric Hot Chocolate
When in doubt, add turmeric. Especially if the you’re feeling the the burn after a tough workout. Here’s a simple, not-too-sweet recipe that uses cinnamon, cacao, and coconut oil, too, so you can fill up on good-for-you ingredients.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon dried ginger
1/2 teaspoon dried turmeric (add more or less depending on your taste)
pinch of cayenne pepper
teaspoon rice malt syrup, to taste (we recommend no more than 1/2 teaspoon)
pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup coconut milk, warmed
1/2 cup water
pinch of cardamom (optional)
Directions:
1. Add raw cacao powder, dried spices, sea salt and pepper into a standard mug.
2. Fill mug halfway with boiling water and rice malt syrup and stir until powders dissolve.
3. Pour in warmed coconut milk and stir to combine. Serve.