Cholesterol-Lowering Pineapple Spinach Smoothie

The Cholesterol-Lowering Pineapple Spinach smoothie ingredients are:

• cucumber
• pineapple
• spinach
• coconut water, unsweetened
• flaxseeds
• Collagen Boost, optional

Cucumbers – Cucumbers, while commonly mistaken for vegetables, are actually a highly nutritious fruit. They are rich in the antioxidants flavonoids and tannins that have been found to prevent cell damage by blocking harmful free radicals. Cucumbers also help reduce blood sugar and have been shown to prevent some diabetes-related complications.
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Pineapples – Pineapples are popular tangy tropical fruit that, surprising to most, originated in South America, not Hawaii. They are absolutely loaded with antioxidants and nutrients, including a ridiculously high amount of vitamin C (1 serving = 131% of the recommended daily intake), manganese, vitamin B6, and thiamin. Pineapples also contain a significant amount of the digestive enzymes bromelain that can help fight pancreatic cancer.
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Spinach – Spinach has long been a major staple of healthy eating. It is loaded with important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A producing carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K1, calcium, folic acid, and iron. Studies have shown that the regular addition of spinach to one’s diet can help improve eye health, promote heart health, boost immune function, and make bones stronger.
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Coconut Water – Coconut water has become an increasingly popular health drink as of late. It is low in calories, efficiently replenishes electrolytes, is an excellent source of potassium, and contains potent free radical fighting antioxidants. Also, coconut water has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes, prevent kidney stone formation, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Flaxseed – Flaxseed has a mild, nutty flavor and a crisp, crunchy texture. It is loaded with vitamins and minerals and high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed is rich in fiber, has potent cancer-fighting properties, particularly for breast cancer colorectal cancer, and skin cancer, and benefits your heart by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
[Amazon Fresh]

A standard blender is all that is required to make these delicious smoothies. If you are making it for just one person, we recommend using the truly amazing personal NutriBullet Ultra as it is super-quick to set up and very easy to clean.

If you are making them for more than one person, we recommend a higher-end Vitamix blender that can process larger loads more efficiently.

For overnight storage, we recommend using a glass or BPA-free airtight container with a resealable lid.

The Cholesterol-Lowering Pineapple Spinach smoothie is very easy to make:

• Step 1: Place cucumber, pineapple, spinach, coconut water, flaxseeds, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
• Step 2: Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
• Step 3: Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
• Step 4: Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.

For ease of use, we recommend peeling and slicing a number of bananas, putting them in a freezer bag, and storing them in your freezer for quick access.

If you don’t have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.

You can substitute another type of fruit, like mango or kiwi, for the pineapple or add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.

If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, you can add a teaspoon of honey or a few drops of stevia.

Healthline: Website

WebMD: Website

Editor-In-Chief

Elle Kenwood

Elle Kenwood co-founded Make Drinks in 2013 and serves as its Editor-In-Chief.  An active CrossFit Level 3 Trainer with a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin, Elle leads the team in curating and developing delicious smoothie and juice recipes, literally wearing out several blenders every year. • Connect with Elle on Facebook and Pinterest. • Send recipe ideas to Elle at: [email protected]