Pumpkin Spice Smoothie For IBS-C

This pumpkin smoothie recipe is great for the fall and winter seasons. It’s a delicious drink and contains enough fiber so if you’re an IBS sufferer having trouble using the toilet, then this should be just the right remedy to get you going. Also, it’s a great meal substitute for breakfast or lunch!

Here are some of the ingredients featured in this smoothie recipe that can help with IBS-C and overall health:

One of the great things about pumpkin I have learned is that it contains plenty of Vitamin A, which helps with better vision. It also helps with reducing bad cholesterol, which is great for those who suffer from hypertension. Pumpkin is a great source for healthy nutrients, and better yet, it helps give the smoothie its unique taste and smooth texture, and it's just great for the fall or winter season.¹

When I suffer from constipation, apples are usually my go-to fruit to help get me going. It contains a lot of fiber which helps with digestion, and it also aids in softening the stool so that it’s easier to have a bowel movement.

According to whfoods.org, "Scientists have recently shown that important health benefits of apples may stem from their impact on bacteria in the digestive tract…As a result of these bacterial changes, metabolism in the large intestine is also changed, and many of these changes appear to provide health benefits."²

Disclaimer: Apples can be a trigger food for some people with IBS, so if this is a trigger for your symptoms, then omit it from the smoothie recipe.

Smoothies are a great meal alternative for the simple fact that the food is broken down into liquid-deliciousness and it’s easier to digest. You’re getting a healthy meal plus lots of nutrients, so you can’t go wrong with this smoothie if you aren’t in the mood for solid foods. Here’s the recipe:

Servings: 2

Ingredients for pumpkin spice smoothie:

• ½ of a package of Quaker Oats gluten-free brown sugar oatmeal
• ½ cup of canned pumpkin
• ½ of a banana fresh/frozen
• 1 medium Red Delicious apple cut into pieces (may substitute 1/3 cup of strawberries instead)
• 1 cup of coconut milk (or any lactose-free milk)
• Handful of ice cubes
• Pumpkin spice to taste

Directions for pumpkin spice smoothie:

1. Place the oats in blender and blend until chopped as finely as possible.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients except the ice and blend until smooth.
3. Then add the ice last, and blend to desired texture.
4. (Optional) Add a dash of pumpkin spice on top of your serving.
5. Enjoy!

References

1. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/04/pumpkin-health-benefits_n_1936919.html
2. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=15