I never thought of using green tea as a base for my blends. .
What Makes This Green Tea Pineapple Smoothie So Great?
This antioxidant-rich smoothie has just four ingredients: green tea, pineapple, pear and spinach. To see how each of them relates to healthy aging, we asked Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN of Real Nutrition in New York City about tea.
1. Green tea
As Shaprio previously told Well+Good, green tea is one of the top sources of catechins, a group of naturally occurring polyphenolic phytochemicals that promote healthy aging and help fight off a variety of ailments. “Catechins reduce excessive oxidative stress through their direct or indirect antioxidant action, promote antioxidant activation, and have cancer-preventing effects,” says Shaprio. Furthermore, catechins not only “regulate the infiltration and proliferation of immune-related cells” to protect immunity, but also “enhance the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria and regulate the balance of the intestinal microbiota, thereby contributing to the growth of the gastrointestinal microbiome.” It stabilizes the structure of the biome.” Reducing oxidative stress, boosting immune defenses, and promoting gut health are all points in one direction for him.
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2. Pineapple
Next, this smoothie calls for frozen or fresh pineapple. Shapiro makes particular emphasis on bromelain, which helps “reduce inflammation, which boosts immunity, as well as prevents chronic diseases and certain cancers.” It has also been shown to have the potential to promote health.” He is also an all-star in digestion.
3. Pear
Pear is one of my favorite fruits. “Pears are a great source of fiber to aid digestion, manage blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome to help prevent illness and disease,” says Shapiro. Keep that in mind for doubling production for the next.* As far as pro-aging properties go, Shapiro says different colors and varieties pack different antioxidants. Pears contain anthocyanins, which help maintain heart health and promote healthy blood vessels.Green pears contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which help keep your eyes healthy as you age. , prevent macular degeneration.”
4. Spinach
For starters, spinach is packed with vitamin C, the superstar antioxidant. Shapiro also says spinach is an excellent source of calcium and should be a priority in your dietary plan to promote bone health. Spinach “contains many plant compounds, including lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health, nitrates for heart health and blood pressure relief, and quercetin, which helps reduce inflammation in the body.” says. Shapiro. Like pears, spinach is rich in dietary fiber. Reaching the FDA’s updated daily recommended intake (28 grams) helps “reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes,” with benefits for aging, digestion, heart health, and more.
Tips for making this smoothie
Ready to blend? Of course it is! But first, read these tips to get the most out of the benefits, texture, and taste of this longevity-promoting smoothie.
- Recipe developer at Nashi Food, Nadja Belgrave, suggests opting for sencha. (Shapiro likewise favors this variety for its high production of protective catechins.) Belgrave also recommends cold brewing to prevent bitterness.
- Leave the pear skin on to enjoy the full nutritional benefits of the fruit.
- Stuff the spinach as close to the blade as possible so that it is finely chopped.
- Add a teaspoon of honey if you like, but the two fruits already add sweetness to the recipe.
Matcha pineapple smoothie recipe how to make with 4 ingredients
2 servings
material
6 oz Cold Brew Sencha Japanese Green Tea
1 cup loosely packed fresh spinach
1 cup chopped frozen pineapple
1 medium pear, seeded and stem removed
1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately. fun!
