Pistachio Smoothie

It can be difficult to add enough fruits and veggies to one's diet as a Crohn's or colitis patient. Too much fiber can wreak havoc on our digestive systems, and veggies are typically not the "comfort food" we have in mind when dealing with nausea and cramps. However, it is important to fill our bodies with as many nutritionally dense foods as possible to keep them as healthy and strong as possible. 

Our IBD diets make eating fruits and veggies hard

It is only natural to feel frustrated between eating what our body needs and eating what our body can handle, which is why I absolutely love this pistachio smoothie.

Smoothies are great for those enduring stomach pain since they are easier to digest yet fill us with nutritious ingredients and keep us hydrated. And, since everything is blended, you can add foods that are typically more difficult to digest, like fruits and veggies, and the side effects are more likely to be minimal if any.

A bonus with this smoothie is that the secret, hidden ingredient is actually cauliflower – a delicious cruciferous veggie that doesn't always sit well when eaten whole, yet can be more easily tolerated when blended. Add that to pistachios, which are high in protein and antioxidants, and you have a meal that is nutritionally beneficial yet prepared in a way that is easier to digest.

Serves 2

Ingredients for pistachio smoothie

• 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled
• 1/3 cup frozen riced cauliflower
• 2 tbsp. maple syrup
• 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
• 1 scoop vegan vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (full fat)
• Pinch of sea salt

Direction for pistachio smoothie

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender or NutriBullet until smooth.
2. Enjoy immediately.