Immune System Boosting Smoothie

In Ayurveda, it is recommended to avoid cold drinks, especially in the winter. Generally, I don’t consume a lot of smoothies in the winter, but I make an exception for this one during cold, flu, and COVID season because it is rich in vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger and turmeric are two powerful medicinal herbs that have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Studies have shown that both have anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, ginger and turmeric are known for their immune-boosting properties, which can help protect the body against infections and diseases. They also have warming properties for the body.

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. This essential vitamin plays a vital role in the body’s immune system by helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. Since the body does not produce vitamin C, it is essential to consume it daily through foods like citrus fruits. Including these superfoods in your diet can help improve your overall health and well-being.

I prefer using fresh ginger and turmeric because the taste is more potent, and they are readily available at Whole Foods and some other grocers. However, if you have trouble finding them, you can also substitute the dried spices.

This recipe is easily customizable. I don’t measure but here’s a rough estimate of my most recent smoothie (makes two or three servings):

Immune Boosting Smoothie

• 1-2 Navel Oranges, peeled (Cara Cara oranges were on sale, so I used one navel, one Cara Cara which is why it’s pink)

• one lemon (I have a Vitamix, so I cut the ends off and put the rest in [rind, seeds, and flesh]. If you have something other than a Vitamix/Blendtec you’ll want to peel your lemon. If you’re eating the rind, I recommend organic lemons)

• ~1 inch of fresh ginger

• ~1 inch of fresh turmeric (available at some natural grocery stores and ethnic stores)

• ~1/2 TBS of black peppercorns (or black pepper) to help with curcumin absorption in the turmeric

• one pinch of salt or LMNT

• ~1 cup of coconut water (more or less depending on your preferred thickness- you could also use water or any milk, but I like the extra nutrients that coconut water provides)

Adjust to your tastes! If it’s too potent for you, you could add a little bit of honey, stevia, another orange, or your preferred sweetener! You could also add protein powder to this recipe or substitute the coconut water for your favorite milk. I find that the coconut water typically adds enough sweetness for me, but ginger can be potent if you add too much.

Put all ingredients into your blender and blend until it’s your desired thickness. For my Vitamix, this takes ~30-60 seconds.

Enjoy within two days.