I love tropical flavors (pineapple, coconut, papaya, etc.). Thus, I really enjoy putting these fruits in my smoothies. Try this smoothie for a filling, satisfying, and incredibly delicious smoothie if you like these flavors, too!

What’s In It (exact measurements are not important):

Fresh Pineapple (fresh takes more time to slice up, but you can’t beat fresh pineapple–it’s worth the extra effort)

Almond Milk (unsweetened)

Whey Protein Powder (vanilla)

Splash of water

Flax seed

Chia Seed

Blend it together, and the result is an extremely tasty, yet healthy smoothie. The benefit of using pineapple in this smoothie, besides the fact that it’s delicious, is that it contains a powerful digestive enzyme called bromelain, which helps heal bruising and contusions. Pineapple is loaded with antioxidants and a trace mineral called manganese, which is crucial in building bone and connective tissue. This goes for both pineapple and papayas; the riper the fruit, the more nutrients it contains. Enjoy! 🙂

Side Note: I’ve learned this neat nutritional information specific to pineapples from Laird Hamilton’s book “Force of Nature.” I highly recommend investing in this book–as it is full of incredibly eye-opening information and products.