Micronutrients & Pholyphenols

Although some smoothies may be sugar-laden, many smoothie powders and nearly all smoothies made with real fruits and vegetables (especially colorful ones) have great micronutrient, phytonutrient, & polyphenols benefits.

Research Findings on Micronutrient and Polyphenol Benefits in Smoothies

4) Persia et al (2022) found that their “Once-Daily Low Inflammatory Foods Everyday (LIFE) Smoothie” significantly lowered C-Reactive Protein (CRP, an inflammatory marker) and raised plasma levels of beta-carotene in 7 days. 

The LIFE smoothie consisted of:

  • 8 oz of dark green leafy vegetables (e.g.,, spinach, baby bok choy, or baby kale).
  • 2.25 cups of blueberries.
  • 1 banana.
  • 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder.
  • 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed.
  • ½ cup of soy milk (plain or vanilla) or unsweetened vanilla almond milk.
  • ½ cup of water.

 

Lower CRP is associated with reduced risk of inflammatory conditions:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • COVID-19
  • Age-related macular degeneration
  • Chronic kidney disease and injury
  • Nonallergic asthma
  • COPD
  • Hypertension
  • All-cause mortality

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