How to Make A Tropical Aloe Glow Smoothie
The produce department is my favorite section of any store, and especially our local co-op, BriarPatch. One day my then 7-year old daughter, Olivia, spotted a large aloe leaf and asked if we could make a smoothie from it. She wanted it so badly that she even offered to use some money from her birthday stash to buy it. How could (and why would) I say no to that request? Into our basket the aloe went and once home, the luscious leaf instantly became the inspiration for a delicious smoothie made with pineapple, coconut milk, banana, lime, and vanilla protein powder. I figured out some tricks for removing the gel from the green skin (which can be a powerful laxative) and in the video below, I share my secrets.
Most people know that applied externally, aloe vera soothes sunburns and helps heal scars and acne. Did you know that taken internally, aloe can relieve indigestion, stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and irritable bowel? Aloe is also alkalizing and detoxifying. Even greater effects have been indicated by the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, who discovered that acemannen, aloe vera’s powerful immune stimulant, may be helpful for some patients during cancer treatments. Acemannen seems to destroy abnormal cells, offering a boost during radiation/chemotherapy, and stimulating the immune systems of people diagnosed with AIDS. Here is a short list of some of the benefits* found in aloe vera gel:
Digestive System
- alkalizing and detoxifying
- soothes acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel, Crohn’s, celiac, and ulcers
- alleviates constipation
Cardiovascular System and Organs
- reduces high blood pressure, trigylicerides, inflammation, and arthritic pain
- improves cardiovascular function
- protective to kidneys, preventing kidney stones
- helps stabilize blood sugar
Immune System
- boosts the effects of vitamins C and E and other antioxidants
- halts the growth of cancer cells and promotes growth of new, healthy cells
- lowers body’s overall viral load
Physical Endurance
- balances electrolytes and speeds recovery (this smoothie is great as a post-workout drink)
- increases athletic endurance
Externally
- antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal
- soothing for abrasions, cuts, stings, bites, sunburns, gums, and periodontal disease by quickening skin regeneration
Tropical Aloe Glow Smoothie
By Allison Rivers
Ingredients
1-inch by 4-inch piece of fresh aloe
1/4 cup canned organic coconut milk
1/2 cup water
Juice of 1 lime, freshly squeezed
1 frozen banana
1/4 cup frozen pineapple
1 scoop plain or vanilla protein powder (optional)
Directions
1. Add everything to a high-powered blender and blend until completely smooth.
2. Pour into a glass, garnished with a fresh slice of lime and enjoy with or without a straw!
*IMPORTANT NOTES:
Please consult your health care professional. This general information is not intended to offer medical advice.
While people have been consuming aloe gel for years, aloe latex, a yellow milky substance, is toxic. Do not consume aloe latex or skin; use only the gel and clear mucilaginous components. Read more from WHO (World Health Organization).
Some people may have negative reactions to aloe vera juice. Take a look at the potential dangers and contraindications of drinking aloe vera, including menstruation, pregnancy, and hemorrhoids and make a choice that’s right for you.
© Recipe by Allison Rivers, MSW Coach, award-winning vegan chef, author of Quick + Easy DIY Salad Bar, The Dairy-Freedom Cookbook, Comfortably Yum, and Co-Founder of The Dairy Detox.
