Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Smoothie

Living with Ulcerative Colitis occasionally makes eating solid food, especially first thing in the morning, challenging and results in unpleasant digestive symptoms. So, how do you start your day with a nutrient-dense and tasty breakfast without spending all morning in the bathroom? Smoothies are a staple of mine for this very reason, especially this pumpkin pie smoothie! 

Pumpkin, banana, and apple all contain a type of soluble fiber called pectin. When we eat this type of fiber, it can help regulate and slow down the frequency of morning bathroom excursions (if you know what I mean…) I also love to add collagen, L-glutamine powder, and extra soluble fiber powder to my smoothies for added gut healing. Let me tell you why I like to add these before I get to the recipe:

Collagen seems to be the super supplement on the market right now and for good reason! Collagen is an important body protein that is the foundation of connective tissues, skin, cartilage, and bone and is also a rich source of several different amino acids that are essential to our daily function, including glycine, lysine, and proline. So, it’s a great source of animal-based protein, with this smoothie having 20 grams! (Hass, 2006)

L-Glutamine is the preferred fuel of cells lining the small intestine, so it is best known for its intestinal healing properties. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially in the intestines as it can help lower levels levels of inflammatory messaging molecules in the gut. This amazing little amino acid can even help reduce sugar and carbohydrate cravings, helping you start the day off on the right foot! (Hass, 2006)

Lastly, I’ve been using this Garden of Life Prebiotic Fiber for several years, adding it to both soups and smoothies. The soluble fiber helps feed all the good bacteria in your gut to support a healthy microbiome and intestinal lining, while also keeping those bathroom trips to a minimum. Oh, and it’s AIP compliant!

Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Smoothie (AIP/ Paleo)

Serves 1

Ingredients:

1 banana

½ cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

½ cup unsweetened apple sauce

¼ cup full-fat coconut milk

¼ cup water

2 scoops collagen peptides or 4 TBS

1 tsp L-Glutamine Powder

2 TBS prebiotic fiber

½ cinnamon

½ tsp turmeric

¼ tsp ground ginger

⅛ tsp ground clove

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a blender and enjoy how easy that was!

Sources:

 Hass, E. M. (2006). Staying healthy with nutrition: The complete guide to diet and nutritional medicine (21st Century Edition). Berkley, CA: Ten Speed Press.