Delicious Pineapple Enzymes

After a steady diet of celebration foods, you might feel like your body needs a boost. I do. And if you can add enzymes that heal, all the better.

Bromelain is the enzyme found in Pineapple, it helps digest proteins. This particular enzyme is used to reduce pain and swelling, help clear sinus infections and aid in the healing of colitis. All very helpful during this winter, holiday month.

Lactase is the enzyme found in any fermented milk product. The fermentation process turns lactose into lactase. It helps people with a lactose intolerance and is good for digestion.

So here's a recipe using yogurt and pineapple that will pick you up the morning after a big holiday meal. You could add a scoop of dairy-free Coconut Ice Cream instead of the yogurt for a light and delicious dessert.

Pineapple Smoothie

(check out www.recipes.prevention.com for this and other healthy recipes)

FROM:  EAT UP SLIM DOWN ANNUAL RECIPES 2005 

This decadently thick drink satisfies my desire for ice cream. Sometimes I vary it by adding coconut flavoring or chunks of strawberries.

Photo: Mitch Mandel

INGREDIENTS

Serves:   Prep: 5min Cook: 0min Total: 5min

• 1 cup low-fat or light vanilla yogurt
• 6 ice cubes
• 1 cup pineapple chunks

DIRECTIONS

1. In a blender, combine the yogurt and ice cubes. Blend, pulsing as needed, until the ice is in large chunks. Add the pineapple and blend at "whip" speed until smooth.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS PER SERVING

CALORIES	282.7 CAL
FAT	3.3 G
SATURATED FAT	2 G
SODIUM	167.1 MG
CARBOHYDRATES	53.4 G
TOTAL SUGARS	48.2 G
DIETARY FIBER	2.2 G
PROTEIN	12.9 G