A registered dietitian shares her favorite protein-rich smoothie ingredients that pack major anti-inflammatory benefits.

Its also vital for oxygenating the body and making enzymes that digest our food.

But the benefits dont have to stop there.

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Protein can be supercharged with anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

Even things that are good for us, like exercise, create free radicals.

If that sounds complex, know that its not.

Close-up of sliced purple cabbage,

registered dietitian and author ofSmoothies &

No protein powder needed.

Here are eight protein-rich smoothie ingredients that will bring major anti-inflammatory benefits to your next smoothie.

8 protein-rich smoothie ingredients that fight inflammation

1.

soba noodles

And these days, many people arent just eating their oatstheyre drinking them as well.

Cacao nibs

Cacao nibs are little bits of dried cocoa beans, which are what chocolate is made from.

I like adding them to smoothies for their chocolatey flavor and crunch.

a woman pours maple syrup onto a stack of pancakes covered in strawberries

Three tablespoons of cacao nibs add four grams of protein, plus lots of delicious texture, she says.

Almond butter

Creamy and rich, almond butter adds a luscious touch to smoothies.

She also notes thatseaweedincluding spirulinaboasts incredible anti-inflammatory benefits.

Broth in Bowl on gray background, healthy food, top view.

registered dietitian and author ofSmoothies &

Plus, they keep your heart healthy by helping to lower cholesterol.

If you want to add the power of flax to your smoothie, its better to use ground flax.

The whole seeds can just pass through your system without the full benefits, she adds.

maple syrup in glass bottle on wooden table

But how much protein do we actually need?

Should we be loading all these ingredients at once?

So, a person who weighs 150 pounds needs about 68 to 70 grams of protein per day.

Protein isolate powder. Unflavored whey protein in measuring scoop and drinking glass in bright sunlight.

In a blender, combine all ingredients and puree until smooth.

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