Vincent A. D'Errico

Heal Yourself with Smoothies

An apple a day keeps the oncologist away.  But why are apple smoothies more beneficial than apple juice or apple cider?

            After a cold and snowy winter, Spring is finally here…and the dog-days of Summer will soon be upon us.  One of my favorite ways to stay cool in the hot weather is drinking fresh smoothies every now and then as an occasional treat.  Now, it is important to note that by `fresh smoothies`, I’m not talking about the frozen sugar-water drinks with artificial coloring and artificial flavors.

            Polyphenols and quinic acid, both found in apples, have proven to be highly beneficial against certain types of cancers including colon cancer. In order for these compounds to be of the highest benefit, they should not be absorbed by the small intestine.  Instead, they must make their way to the colon where they can be most effective.

            In a study from Germany, the birthplace of naturopathy, smoothies were found to deliver more polyphenols to the colon than apple juice or apple cider. 

            Researchers speculate that the whole apple (including the skin) which is used in smoothies but not juice is responsible for this.  The cell wall, which remains intact in the smoothie helps to prevent digestion and absorption by the small intestine, thus allowing the nutrients to be delivered to the large intestine (colon).

            Of course, actually eating the whole apple is just as beneficial.  But let’s face it, it’s much easier to get someone to drink a smoothie than to eat a piece of fruit.

            To make your smoothie, start off with about a half-cup of liquid.  You can use pure water, iced herbal tea (brew some cinnamon tea to help regulate blood sugar), organic milk or yogurt, or organic fruit juices. 

            Next add 2 or 3 whole fruits (organically grown fruits are always best) like apples, bananas, pineapples, or blueberries, to name just a few.

            First add the liquid, then add the chopped fruit, then add some ice if you are using ice.  Blend for about 20 seconds on low, then increase to a higher setting for another 20 seconds.

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