Functional Medicine Anti-Inflammatory Drinks
There are many ways to soothe and even prevent harmful inflammation in the body, but some are mor safe and effective than others. Here is a sampling submitted by area functional medicine practitioners.
Turmeric Golden Milk
One of the best anti-inflammatory beverages is golden milk, which contains a combination of compounds and antioxidants that support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and reduce inflammation. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is well known for having strong anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is combined with other anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper to create golden milk, a warm, calming beverage.
1 cup unsweetened coconut or almond milk
1 tsp powdered turmeric (or grated fresh turmeric root)
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp powdered ginger (or grated fresh ginger)
A dash black pepper (to improve the absorption of curcumin)
1 tsp honey (optional)
In a saucepan, warm the almond milk over medium heat. Include the black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric. Mix thoroughly. After 5 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat. If desired, sweeten with honey and serve warm.
Green Tea with Lemon and Ginger
With its reputation for increasing metabolism, enhancing cognitive function and lowering the risk of chronic illnesses, this beverage is an ideal anti-inflammatory for health. Catechins, a class of antioxidants that lowers oxidative stress and inflammation, are abundant in green tea. Lemon and ginger are added to increase the anti-inflammatory effects and provide a cool, zesty taste.
1 cup hot water
1 bag green tea
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
½ lemon (juiced)
1 tsp honey (optional)
Let the green tea bag steep in hot water for three to five minutes. Add the grated ginger and give it another minute to infuse. If desired, stir in the honey and lemon juice. Savor it warm or cold.
Tart Cherry Juice
Regularly consuming tart cherry juice can aid in the management of arthritis symptoms, enhance sleep quality and facilitate muscle recovery. Strong antioxidants called anthocyanins, which are abundant in tart cherries, can help lower inflammation, joint pain and muscle soreness.
1 cup unsweetened tart cherry juice
½ cup water (if desired)
Ice cubes (not required)
Fill a glass with the tart cherry juice. If desired, dilute with water. Enjoy after adding ice cubes.
Pineapple and Ginger Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie
This all-natural inflammatory-reducing beverage is excellent for digestion and immune system support. Bromelain, an enzyme with potent anti-inflammatory qualities, is found in pineapples. This smoothie is a revitalizing and restorative drink when combined with ginger.
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
½ tsp grated ginger
½ cup coconut milk
½ banana (for sweetness)
Ice cubes (not required)
Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Serve right away and savor.
Matcha Latte with Coconut Milk
Matcha lattes support brain function, lower inflammation and give long-lasting energy. Green tea powder, or matcha, is a potent source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
1 tsp matcha powder
1 cup hot almond or coconut milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp honey (optional)
Create a paste by whisking matcha powder with a tiny bit of hot water. Pour hot coconut milk over matcha paste. Add honey and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly and savor.
Beetroot Juice with Lemon and Ginger
This nutritious anti-inflammatory beverage aids in detoxification and heart health. Beetalains, which have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying qualities, are found in beetroots.
1 cup beetroot, freshly peeled and chopped
½ cup water
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp grounded ginger
Mix all ingredients and strain if necessary. Serve right away.
Aloe Vera and Cucumber Detox Drink
This beverage promotes hydration, eases intestinal inflammation and facilitates digestion. Aloe vera is a popular beverage for gut health and skin hydration because of its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.
½ cup fresh aloe vera syrup
½ cucumber, sliced
1 cup water
½ lemon (juiced)
Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Serve cold.
Blueberry and Spinach Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie
One of the greatest anti-inflammatory beverages, this smoothie offers vital vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for general well-being. Flavonoids and antioxidants found in blueberries aid in lowering oxidative stress and inflammation.
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 handful spinach
½ banana
1 cup almond milk
1 tsp chia seeds
Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Serve right away.
Dr. Roman E. Finn, MD is the owner of The Center for Integrative and Traditional Medicine, located at 22 Madison Ave., in Paramus. For more information, call 201-291-0401 or visit citm-DrFinn.comvisit.
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