Got Knee Pain? Try This Cinnamon-Pineapple Smoothie To Nourish Your Joints And Fight Inflammation

Knees play a crucial role in your mobility and strength throughout life. They are often among the first body parts to be affected by arthritis and injury. In fact, knee surgery ranks as one of the most common inpatient procedures in the United States, with approximately 4.5 million Americans having at least one knee fully replaced.

To maintain knee health, it's best to stretch regularly, keep fit, and eat a balanced diet. For those needing an additional boost or managing arthritis, consuming this daily smoothie can help enhance the health of your joints and ligaments.

Pineapple Joint Elixir

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup (250 ml) of water
• 1/4 Oz (7 g) of cinnamon
• Two cups of sliced pineapple chunks
• 1 cup of instant oats
• 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1.5 Oz (40 g) of crushed almonds
• 1.5 Oz (40 g) of raw organic honey

Instructions:

1. Cook the oatmeal according to the package instructions and allow it to cool.
2. Combine the orange juice, cinnamon, honey, and almonds in a blender and blend.
3. Add the pineapple and pulse for 30 seconds.
4. Add the oatmeal and blend until smooth.
5. Consume immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
6. With daily consumption over two weeks, you should experience reduced pain and inflammation in your body, including your joints.

How It Works

• Pineapple contains an enzyme known as bromelain, which is effective in treating swelling and inflammation. It is commonly used to alleviate inflammation from tendinitis, sprains, strains, and other minor muscle injuries, and it can also reduce arthritis pain.
• Almonds are rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E, and the immune-boosting alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), all of which are vital in treating arthritis and osteoarthritis.
• Cinnamon possesses a mild analgesic effect and reduces swelling by counteracting pro-inflammatory cytokines. This spice also helps prevent exercise-induced muscle soreness.
• Orange juice, high in vitamin C, plays a crucial role in the formation of collagen, a key component of cartilage and bone, thus slowing the wear and tear of joints.
• Honey contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds that collectively aid in the treatment of arthritis and contribute to the healing of gout and other joint conditions. It also sweetens your smoothie and enhances your immune system.
• Oats and other whole grains can relieve inflammation, whereas refined grains, such as white flour, can exacerbate it. Sports nutritionists often recommend oatmeal as a post-workout snack to prevent joint and muscle pain.