Updated:
February 23, 2017
Published:
February 4, 2016
A recipe specially created for cancer patients by an oncology dietitian and patient navigator at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute.
This deliciously refreshing fruit smoothie, full of protein and nutrition, is especially beneficial for people experiencing loss of appetite, constipation, or mouth sores as a result of cancer treatment.
Keeping frozen fruit on hand in the freezer makes it easy to whip up this fulfilling snack or a mini-meal in minutes. We chose dark-red cherries, but blueberries, mangoes, strawberries and bananas would be just as tasty. Use what you have on hand and what your family loves.
Dark-red, or Bing sweet cherries, add needed fiber to your diet. Anthocyanins, an antioxidant flavonoid, give cherries their dark-red color and protect the body from environmental toxins that can damage cells.
Adding flaxseed, a healthy source of fat and fiber, is found to help reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Almond milk may help reduce the effects of developing some types of cancer as well. However, since it is low in protein, adding some protein powder to your smoothie is recommended.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup frozen dark-red (sweet) cherries
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt or almond soy yogurt for a dairy-free alternative
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seed
- 1 tablespoon whey or pea protein powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Makes 2 servings.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for a minute or two until smooth.
Nutritional Information
Per 10 ounce serving: 175 calories; 3.4g total fat (0.6g saturated, 0.9g polyunsaturated, 0.3g monounsaturated); 152mg sodium; 30mg cholesterol; 19g carbohydrate; 3.3g fiber; 14.5g sugars; 17g protein; 194mg potassium.