Spiced Mango and Bitter Melon Smoothie

HomeClinics & ProgramsELLICSR KitchenSpiced Mango and Bitter Melon Smoothie

Skill Level	Easy

Preparation Time	10 minutes	Total Time	10 minutes
Servings	2	Cost Per Serving	$2.38

2 cups	Fresh or Frozen Mango
1/2 cup	Bitter Melon, seeds removed and cubed
1/2 tsp	Ground Cardamom
1/2 tsp	Cayenne Pepper (optional)
1/2 cup	Plain Yogurt
1 cup	Water or Almond Milk

PDF link to nutrition facts table for Spiced Mango and Bitter Melon Smoothie

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), foods are classified as having heating or cooling properties, which have effects on balancing "yin" and "yang". For example, bitter melon is said to help cool down the body and provide relief from summer heat. Both Eastern and Western nutrition agree the best way to get a balance of "yin/yang", heating/cooling foods, and overall nutrients for good health, is to choose a variety of foods.
Chili contains a plant nutrient called capsaicin that helps lower inflammation, particularly in the joints. Capsaicin creams have been shown to reduce pain from osteorarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In TCM, chili is believed to warm the body and the joints and is also used to help manage arthritis.
In TCM, no foods are completely off limits and diets are individualized. This philosophy is echoed by dietitians around the world who promote a healthy, balanced way of eating where "all foods fit" and that meets the needs of each person.