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Cherry Smoothies To Combat Arthritis
Cherries have long been used to sooth chronically inflamed joints. In my experience, cherries aren't consistently effective in helping cases of degenerative arthritis, but when used in conjunction with a dairy-free diet, I find that they can significantly reduce joint pain caused by metabolic-type arthritides like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthropathy.
Cherries are one of nature's best sources of a group of health-enhancing pigments called anthocyanins. Specifically, cherries are abundant in anthocyanocides, which provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Anthocyanocides are particularly effective in keeping blood uric acid in check, which is why cherries are a viable remedy for people who tend to experience gout.
The entire class of anthocyanin antioxidants seems to offer protection against collegen breakdown, which may explain why regular intake of cherries is often helpful to those who have joint pain caused by rhematoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
When cherries aren't in season, we like to make cherry smoothies with frozen, pitted cherries that are available at Costco.
To make 3 to 4 cherry smoothies, start with two medium size bananas.
About 1.5 cups of frozen, pitted cherries.
Add about half a cup of frozen strawberries.
And one and a half cups each of your favourite juice and non-dairy milk. For most of our berry and cherry smoothies, we like to use a berry smoothie mix by Bolthouse farms.
If you want extra cherry content, you can always add a teaspoon or two of acerola cherry powder before blending.
Cherry smoothies are best enjoyed right away, as they tend to develop a slight jello-like consistency after a few hours.
Some people tend to experience an overactive GI tract if they eat too many cherries in one sitting, so it's best to start with less than you think you'll need, observe how your body responds, and go from there with subsequent servings.
Whether you're looking to soothe inflamed joints or just share these mouthwatering cherry smoothies with loved ones, I trust that you'll enjoy.
For more on how to use dietary and lifestyle choices to prevent most types of arthritis, please feel free to view: