“Absolutely delicious, tastes like a less-sweet apple pie!”
~ Gwen L.
Apple Cinnamon, a heart-healthy cholesterol-lowering smoothie recipe, is a tasty and nutritious blend that combines the natural sweetness of apples and bananas with the warmth of cinnamon. Ground flaxseeds add a boost of fiber and healthy fats.
Apples are high in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Bananas provide potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure. Cinnamon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while flaxseeds contribute additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids to support heart health.
Everything You Need
Key Ingredients
The Cholesterol-Lowering Apple Cinnamon smoothie ingredients are:
- apples
- banana
- almond milk
- cinnamon
- flaxseeds
- ice
Health Benefits
Apples – Apples are the most widely consumed fruit globally and boast more than 7,000 different varieties. They provide significant amounts vitamin C, vitamin K, copper, and potassium, and are loaded with power antioxidants, especially polyphenols. Apples can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, and promote gut health as a prebiotic.
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Bananas – Bananas are very healthy, readily available, and one of the least expensive fruits you can buy. They have relatively few calories, are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, are full of potent antioxidants including flavonoids and animes, and are high in dietary fiber. Studies have shown that bananas can improve insulin sensitivity and may improve kidney health.
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Almond Milk – Almond milk is a popular nut-based milk replacement that is naturally lactose-free, dairy-free, and completely vegan. It has a surprisingly diverse set of nutrients, including significant amounts of vitamin D, vitamin E, and calcium. Almond milk is also a heart-healthy beverage for those interested in lowering their cholesterol.
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Cinnamon – Cinnamon is an ancient spice that has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It is high in powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, and is loaded with cinnamaldehyde, which also provides significant health benefits. Cinnamon is a known anti-inflammatory, helps reduce cholesterol, improves sensitivity to insulin, and aids in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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Flaxseed – Flaxseed has a mild, nutty flavor and a crisp, crunchy texture. It is loaded with vitamins and minerals and high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed is rich in fiber, has potent cancer-fighting properties, particularly for breast cancer colorectal cancer, and skin cancer, and benefits your heart by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
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Equipment Needed
A standard blender is all that is required to make these delicious smoothies. If you are making it for just one person, we recommend using the truly amazing personal NutriBullet Ultra as it is super-quick to set up and very easy to clean.
If you are making them for more than one person, we recommend a higher-end Vitamix blender that can process larger loads more efficiently.
For overnight storage, we recommend using a glass or BPA-free airtight container with a resealable lid.
How To Make The Cholesterol-Lowering Apple Cinnamon Smoothie
The Cholesterol-Lowering Apple Cinnamon smoothie is very easy to make:
- Step 1: Place apple, banana, almond milk, cinnamon, flaxseeds, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
- Step 2: Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
- Step 3: Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Step 4: Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.
Recipe Tips And Substitutions
For ease of use, we recommend peeling and slicing a number of bananas, putting them in a freezer bag, and storing them in your freezer for quick access.
If you don’t have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.
You can add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of nut butter for extra protein and satiety.
For a creamier texture, try using Greek yogurt instead of almond milk.
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Cholesterol-Lowering Apple Cinnamon Smoothie Recipe
Cholesterol-Lowering Apple Cinnamon Smoothie loaded with LDL reducing fruit-based fiber and anti-inflammatory spices. Learn how to make at home!
Ingredients
- 1 apple, cored
- 1 banana, frozen, sliced
- 1 cup almond milk, unsweetened
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, ground
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed
- 1 cup ice
- 1 scoop Collagen Boost, optional
Instructions
- Place apple, banana, almond milk, cinnamon, flaxseeds, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
- Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
- Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.
Notes
- For ease of use, we recommend peeling and slicing a number of bananas, putting them in a freezer bag, and storing them in your freezer for quick access.
- If you don't have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.
- You can add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of nut butter for extra protein and satiety.
- For a creamier texture, try using Greek yogurt instead of almond milk.
Recommended Products
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 249Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 309mgCarbohydrates: 105gFiber: 10gSugar: 66gProtein: 23g
Smoothie Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple sauce instead of a whole apple in this smoothie?
While you can use applesauce, it may contain added sugars and have less fiber than a whole apple. Opt for unsweetened applesauce or, preferably, use a whole apple for the most health benefits.
How can I make this smoothie dairy-free?
This smoothie is already dairy-free, as it uses almond milk. However, you can substitute any other dairy-free milk, such as coconut milk or oat milk, based on your preference.
More Cholesterol-Lowering Smoothie Recipes
→ If you liked this delicious Apple Cinnamon smoothie, try more of our heart-healthy favorites on our Cholesterol-Lowering Smoothie Recipes page.
