Anti-Inflammatory Super Nut & Seed Butters

Chronic inflammation is the root cause of many diseases.

Inflammation is an important part of our body's defense mechanism - it helps protect our bodies from infection and injury. But, due to our diet, lifestyle, and constant stressors that our body has to deal with, many of us have an excessive amount of inflammation (chronic inflammation) which can show up in many ways or not show up at all for a long time (asymptomatic).

It's important to shift the balance towards an anti-inflammatory diet to achieve optimal health.

A few key nutrients that help combat inflammation include omega-3 fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, gingerol, curcumin, carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium.

Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients

We chose the following ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties to combine into delicious healthy nut & seed butters:

Have the highest amount of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) than any other nut. ALA is well known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It aids in lowering cholesterol, thus decreasing blood pressure, heart diseases and stroke. It also contains some of the highest levels of antioxidants than any other nut, including melatonin, ellagic acids, Vitamin E, and various polyphenolic compounds.

Contain 75-80% heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, it has an ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (3:1) plus it contains the less common stearidonic (SDA) and gamma linoleic (GLA) acids. These fatty acids fight inflammation and protect your heart and immune system. Hemp seeds are exceptionally nutritious thanks to their vitamin, mineral, phytosterol, fiber, fat and protein make-up.

Contain ellagic acid which has anti-inflammatory effects as well as anti-mutagenic effects in the body and can even be neuroprotective. They are also the best food source of selenium which is also very important in combating inflammation in the body as well as promoting thyroid function. One single kernel provides 100% of the daily requirement!

Are especially rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA's), similar to those found in olive oil. Studies suggest that MUFA's can help in reducing inflammation and therefore reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Contrary to what most think, studies also show that MUFA's can aid in weight loss. Cashews offer many other healthy nutrients including the highest zinc and copper content than any other nut.

Is high in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A little goes a long way! Ginger has many health benefits and has been recognized for its medicinal uses since ancient times.

Yellow curry powder contains turmeric, also known as curcumin which is a phenolic compound with anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-amyloid, anti-ischemic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been in use since a very long ago as an essential ingredient in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines.

Provide a load of vitamin A - a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system against infection. It´s is especially important to maintain the integrity of skin and mucosa keeping skin and tissues in the mouth, stomach, intestines, and respiratory system healthy as well as promoting good vision.

Raw cacao powder has more than 300 phytochemicals and nearly four times the antioxidant power of regular dark chocolate. Research studies suggest that these chemical compounds, by virtue of their antioxidant properties, work against cancers, inflammation, aging, and viral infections.

Here are 3 delicious nut butter recipes rich in nutrients & substances that have anti-inflammatory properties. Not only are these nut butters rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients but, they are also an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and contain a good amount of protein and heart-healthy fats. Enjoy!

Ingredients

Anti-inflammatory Nut & Seed Butter

• 1 cup walnuts
• ¾ cup hemp seeds
• ¼ cup Brazil nuts
• 6 apricot pieces

Anti-inflammatory Nut & Seed Butter with Cacao

• 1 cup walnuts
• ¾ cup hemp seeds
• ¼ cup brazil nuts
• 6 apricot pieces
• 2 tablespoons cacao powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, stevia or sweetener of choice

Curry Cashew Coconut Butter

• 1 cup unsalted cashews
• 2 thumb-sized pieces of sweetened dried ginger pieces
• 1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
• 1 tsp curry powder
• pinch of salt

Instructions

• Place all ingredients in the NutraMilk container.
• Press Butter cycle, set for 7-8 minutes.
• Press Start.
• Open the container lid.
• If necessary, set for an additional 1-2 minutes for a creamier butter.