When you want to be healthy and consume a lot of different fruits and vegetables in one meal, turn to old faithful: the reliable smoothie. You can create beautiful and harmonious flavors by blending different fruits and vegetables together. Sometimes, the smoothie can be sneakily healthy. How is that possible? You add fruits that are packed with antioxidants and vital nutrients to complement the vitamins and minerals in leafy greens.

The smoothie is green because it contains spinach. Like any other leafy green, spinach controls the color of the smoothie. Similarly, beets turn a smoothie red and blueberries turn a smoothie blue. The dark pigments, which are antioxidant compounds that benefit cellular health, in these ingredients are to blame. To blame or to thank? We will let you be the judge of that.

This green smoothie contains bananas, pineapple, and grapefruit. Before you add the banana and pineapple to the blender, you’ll want to peel them and roughly dice them. Scatter them across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in the freezer overnight. Make sure that the fruit pieces are in a single layer to avoid clumping. If you do not want to freeze the fruit, you can use fresh fruit and add ice until the smoothie reaches your desired consistency.

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A lot of people struggle with the appearance of large pores, which can be quite frustrating. Sure, it’s possible to experiment with a variety of skin care products, but not all of them agree with your skin. In fact, some can cause serious irritation and cause additional problems that outweigh the concern of large pores. 

DIY serums, particularly those that contain grapefruit and witch hazel, can be very effective at reducing the size of pores. These natural ingredients work to tighten the skin and help control excess oil production. These two actions make them ideal for anyone looking to enhance their skin care routine.

Benefits Of Grapefruit Extract

Naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, grapefruit extract provides nutrients that are essential for the skin. The presence of antioxidants helps reduce oil production, making it beneficial for people with oily skin. Grapefruit extract’s astringent properties work to tighten the skin, minimizing the visibility of large pores. Additionally, it may help to brighten the skin, contributing to a vibrant glow and clearer skin by combatting bacteria that can cause acne. 

Benefits Of Witch Hazel

Similar to grapefruit extract, witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to soothe the skin. It works to reduce inflammation and redness, making it a great skin care ingredient for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Witch hazel works to diminish pore size and improve the skin’s overall texture. In addition to balancing the skin’s oil levels, witch hazel helps to ensure hydration without leaving the skin greasy. Some studies indicate that witch hazel may improve circulation, which contributes to a healthy glow. 

Preparing Your Skin For The Serum

Before you apply the serum, make sure that your skin is clean. Start by using a gentle cleanser to help remove dirt and oil. Without this step, the pore-tightening serum cannot penetrate the skin effectively. After you cleanse, exfoliate the skin once or twice per week. Gentle exfoliants can help remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. They also help prevent clogged pores, giving the serum a better chance for efficacy. 

Optional Application Method

When ready to apply the serum, use clean hands to ensure that you are not contaminating the skin. Use a small amount of serum and massage it into your face with your fingertips. Use upward motions and concentrate on the T-zone, where pores are typically more visible. The T-zone is the area of the face that encompasses the forehead, nose, and chin. You can also use gentle tapping motions with your fingertips to encourage optimal absorption. Allow the serum to sit on the skin for a few minutes before you apply any additional products. 

Post-Application Care

Once your skin absorbs the serum, apply a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate the skin without clogging your pores. That is a crucial step after applying a serum! You can also apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you apply it during the day. Also, if you notice any unusual dryness or irritation, you may want to adjust your application frequency or consider making adjustments to your routine. Always listen to your skin’s needs. 

DIY Pore-Tightening Serum

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup witch hazel

Instructions:

• Add both ingredients to a glass bottle with a dropper lid. Screw the lid on a shake well to combine. 
• The serum is ready to use!

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Although Christmas trees are no longer aglow and decorated in your house, you can still make use of fresh pine needles from wild pine trees. Incorporate these aromatic needles into your very own sugar scrub. You want to know the best part? Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also requires just three ingredients! No need for double boilers or infusion methods. Just whip up a batch of this stuff and your skin will thank you.

If winter has left your skin dry and scaly, a sugar scrub may be the best way to pamper your skin. Not only does a sugar scrub help exfoliate the skin, but it also provides it with moisture, due to the presence of coconut oil. As a quick note, if coconut oil does not agree with your skin, you can replace it with jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, as those are great carrier oils for all skin types. 

Why Use Pine Needles?

Pine needles happen to be one of the most widely used herbs in the world. For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine has used them for thousands of years, as they are an excellent source of vitamin C. They have been incorporated into various herbal remedies for stomachaches, inflammation, headaches, arthritis, and more. Regarding inflammation, pine needles are often used because of their antioxidant and flavonoid content. The flavonoids in pine needles act as powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage. They also help prevent blood clots, aid with cholesterol reduction, and fight off some cancer cells. 

The antioxidants in pine needles also exhibit antimicrobial effects, which work to fight redness or infections on the skin. Chinese medicine used pine needle oil to help keep wounds clean while they healed. Additionally, pine needles have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, which may help reduce redness or swelling. In fact, some research says that pine needle tea helps reduce arthritic symptoms by aiding inflammation reduction in the body. 

In addition to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, pine needles are also rich in vitamin K. While vitamin K is necessary for optimal bone health, it also helps the body produce collagen, which keeps the skin smooth and elastic. The presence of vitamin C in pine needles also provides an added boost for collagen production. Finally, pine needles are particularly rich in both vitamin A and B1, which are necessary for cell growth. 

A Quick Note Of Caution

If you have sensitive skin, or you are prone to eczema, use discretion when experimenting with new ingredients on the skin. Always do a patch test, which involves using a small amount of the product on an area that can stay undisturbed if you experience a breakout. Dry skin is one thing that can inflame eczema. The application of oil-based exfoliants, such as this sugar scrub, may help with long-term hydration. Make sure that you avoid washing right away, or else you will strip the skin of any oil that the skin has not yet absorbed. 

DIY Winter Pine Sugar Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2.5 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh pine needles, chopped

Instructions:

• Begin by pouring the sugar into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Make sure it is free of clumps. 
• Pour room temperature coconut oil into the sugar and mix until completely combined. 
• Add the chopped pine needles and continue to stir until fully incorporated. 
• Transfer the mixture to a glass jar and screw on the top, making sure to store in a cool, dark place. 
• When ready to use, massage about a teaspoon-sized amount and massage into the skin. Leave on for about 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

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Fruity, delicious, and refreshing…are not the words you would typically use to describe a kale smoothie. This high protein smoothie is definitely a keeper, especially if you are cleansing. It is full of fiber, antioxidants, protein, and so much more. Drinking this smoothei can fuel your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to stay full between meals. Plus, it comes together is just five minutes!

If your goal is to include more protein in your diet, this smoothie should remain in your recipe rotation. No need for chalky protein powders with this smoothie! This smoothie is creamy as can be and helps your body build muscle, boost metabolism, and may even help you curb unwanted cravings. In addition to the protein, this smoothie also offers beneficial antioxidants, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, potassium, polyphenols, and more. Blueberries are great sources of anthocyanins, which are antioxidant compounds that work to reduce inflammation, help lower blood pressure, and protect brain function. Some research indicates that these antioxidants may even exhibit anti-aging properties.

When it comes to choosing kale, you have a lot of options to choose from. Typically, green curly kale is the most common variety in grocery stores, but you don’t want to choose that variety for this recipe. Baby kale is definitely the way to go for this smoothies, and other smoothies that call for kale. It has a much milder flavor and may even exhibit some mild sweetness. Plus, you don’t have to worry about thick fibrous stems that you have to remove prior to blending.

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Cranberries may be small, but they’re packed with powerful plant compounds that support overall wellness. Rich in antioxidants, cranberries help protect cells from oxidative stress, support urinary tract health, and promote digestive balance. They also contain natural polyphenols that support heart health and healthy circulation, making them a great addition to a balanced, plant-forward diet. Add them dried (no added sugar), fresh, or as an unsweetened tea to your daily routine.

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Allow us to start at the beginning: a beautiful, creamy base of homemade almond milk, which lends a light, nutty smoothness that carries the flavors without overpowering them. A frozen banana thickens the smoothie while adding gentle sweetness and a frosty texture. We build on the nutty flavor of homemade almond milk by adding raw almond butter, which provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber. As the blender blitzes the ingredients, the ground flaxseeds disappear into the mixture, giving the smoothie a velvety smoothness and wholesome, satisfying feel. We chose ground flaxseeds because it’s easier for the body to digest them in ground form.

At the heart of the smoothie are the goji berries, which you soften in water prior to blending them. During the blending process, they release a mildly tart, berry-like flavor that complements the banana’s natural sweetness. Goji berries are especially valuable because they are rich in antioxidants that work to protect cells from free radicals and oxidative stress. They also provide notable amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C, which help support normal vision and immune function. The natural fiber in goji berries contributes to feelings of fullness, making the smoothie both nourishing and energizing without weighing you down.

The warm winter spices bring everything together, with cinnamon adding gentle sweetness and fresh ginger delivering a bright, zesty kick that lingers on the palate. The ginger gives the smoothie a refreshing warmth, while the cinnamon enhances the natural flavors of the fruit and nuts. The final result is a well-balanced, ruby-tinted smoothie that tastes comforting yet vibrant—smooth, slightly tart, lightly spiced, and packed with ingredients that make it as nourishing as it is delicious.

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This underrated fruit has serious health benefits. Let’s talk about QUINCE. Quinces are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, helping support immune health, digestion, and overall wellness naturally. They’ve been traditionally used to help soothe the gut, support skin health, and promote daily balance. Unlike most fruits, quinces are best enjoyed cooked, stewed, or as a warm tea, making them perfect for cooler months and gut-friendly routines. If you’re focused on natural wellness, immune support, gut health, and antioxidant-rich foods, this fruit deserves a spot in your kitchen.

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It’s officially winter, people! Just because the weather is colder and the decorative lights adorn houses, that doesn’t mean that fresh produce takes a backseat to comfort foods. In fact, the colder months actually bring some of the most nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables of the year. Winter produce is typically hearty, flavorful, and especially good for supporting the body when daylight is short and colds and flus are circulating. Consider this article a tour of some of the best seasonal winter produce; plus, your body will thank you for eating them.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons)

Think of winter as citrus season, and that’s no accident. It’s exactly when you need them most, as they are naturally rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods. Vitamin C also works to enhance collagen production, which your skin desperately needs during dry winter weather. Citrus fruits also contain antioxidants that work to protect cells from damaging free radicals. Plus, their bright, fresh flavor is a mood booster during those gray winter days.

Kale

Kale is one of those leafy greens that thrives in cold weather, and frost actually makes it taste slightly sweeter. That’s true for a lot of other root vegetables, such as parsnips and sweet potatoes, as well. The light snow cover somehow makes them a little sweeter! Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, all of which aid immune function, bone health, and vision. It also contains compounds that support heart health and help reduce inflammation. For such a tough-looking green, it’s surprisingly nutrient-dense. Just make sure to remove the thick, fibrous stems before you enjoy, as they can taste quite bitter.

Brussels Sprouts

Once unfairly hated, Brussels sprouts are now a winter favorite, and you can commonly see them on restaurant menus. These little green bulbs are rich in fiber, which helps keep you regular and may promote better heart health. The vitamin C in Brussels sprouts support immunity, but it also helps protect cells and may support long-term health.

Sweet Potatoes

A classic winter staple, sweet potatoes are filling, comforting, and quite versatile. They contain a lot of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support vision and immune health. Sweet potatoes also provide complex carbohydrates for steady energy, in addition to fiber that helps keep you full and supports gut health.

Carrots

It’s hard to think of carrots as a winter produce item, considering that you can buy them throughout the year. They are especially tasty during winter and just like sweet potatoes, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, making them good for both overall health and digestion.

Beets

Beets are a cold-weather root vegetable with a vibrant crimson color and bold, earthy flavor. Beets contain nitrates that help to encourage healthy blood flow and heart function. They’re also a source of folate, which is integral for cell growth and healthy fetal development, and they contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Kabocha)

As the name suggests, these squash varieties are freshest during winter, although they show up during mid-to-late fall. Winter squash are built for the season, as they have thick skin, long shelf life, and tons of nutrients. Most of them have a rich, orange flesh, meaning they are naturally rich in beta-carotene, but they also contain vitamins A and C, which encourage immune and skin health. They also provide potassium, which helps to naturally lower sodium levels in the body, a process that may lower blood pressure levels. Their natural sweetness makes them perfect for cozy winter meals, such as stews, soups, or roasted vegetable medleys.

Apples and Pears

Even though apples and pears are classic fall fruits, they are still going strong throughout winter. Both apples and pears are rich in fiber, especially in their skins, offering support to the digestive system and helping to keep blood sugar stable. They also contain antioxidants that support heart health and overall wellness.

Winter produce may not always look the most appealing, but it’s hearty, nutrient-dense, and exactly what the body needs during colder months. Plus, eating seasonally means better flavor, better nutrition, and often better prices. Even when it’s freezing outside, your plate can still be colorful, fresh, and full of health/life.

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Various studies indicate that cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, but it isn’t the only superfood in the spice drawer. There are other spices, which you should not overlook, that offer potent antioxidant compounds. Some of these compounds may help boost immune function, fight inflammation, and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic health conditions. 

What Are Antioxidants?

In simple terms, antioxidants are molecules that assist the body with fighting off harmful free radicals, which the body naturally produces. Ultimately, “antioxidant” is a general term for any compound that counteracts unstable molecules (free radicals) that damage DNA, cell membranes, and cell parts. Antioxidants help control the amount of free radicals in the body, helping lower the risk of health conditions such as cancer and diabetes. You can find antioxidants in many foods, and several vitamins, such as vitamins C and E, are powerful antioxidants.

Turmeric

One of the best anti-inflammatory spices is turmeric, and it is largely because of the active compound: curcumin. Not only does it work to lower oxidative stress and support immune function, but it also supports inflammation pathways in the body. Although curcumin has been linked to improvements in arthritis, anxiety, and metabolic syndrome, more research is necessary. Ground turmeric powder offers the most concentrated antioxidants, but make sure to pair it with black pepper and a fat source to make curcumin more bioavailable. If you are on blood thinners or other medications, consult your doctor before you take turmeric because it can interfere with some medications. 

Ginger

Ginger adds a zesty zing to any sauce, smoothie, or stir fry, and the tea has just enough spice to help soothe a sore throat. Both fresh and ground ginger offer benefits, but fresh ginger root brings more aromatic compounds. According to research from 2020, ginger can trigger the release of anti-inflammatory messenger proteins called cytokines while simultaneously reducing pro-inflammatory ones. The specific antioxidant compound behind this ability is gingerol, which gives ginger its warm, bright flavor. Studies show that when ginger is dried, the gingerols convert to shogaols, which can be more potent, according to lab studies. Both gingerols and shogaols may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. 

Cloves

Laboratory measures of a specific food’s antioxidant content do not reveal how the body absorbs or uses them. Ground cloves, however, have a higher Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) than cinnamon, according to nutritional data. The antioxidants in cloves include flavonoids, gallic acid, and eugenol. A 2025 study found that the antioxidants from clove pods could be more effective in lower doses when compared to other antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and ascorbic acid. Eugenol also binds strongly to bacterial enzymes, meaning it may have antibacterial properties. Cloves may also help decrease blood clotting and blood sugar, but may be harmful in high doses. 

Oregano

A classic spice in many different cuisines, oregano is rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, including thymol and carvacrol. Studies suggest that these antioxidants may support immune function. In fact, as an essential oil, oregano has exhibited powerful antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. Oregano may also support intestinal wellbeing, helping to fight bad bacteria in the gut and balance overall gut bacteria. Due to oregano’s potency, exercise caution when using it. As a supplement, oregano is very strong and should only be used under medical supervision. If you use oregano oil, use it in the short-term, as long-term use can disrupt gut microbiome.

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This cranberry sugar scrub is similar to other scrubs, only we tweaked it to include real, fresh cranberries. ’Tis the season, after all. Plus, the cranberries provide essential antioxidants, texture, and beautiful color. Not only is it soothing for dry skin, which is very common during the winter months, but it also makes for an excellent homemade gift this holiday season. 

What Is A Sugar Scrub?

First of all, the body naturally sheds skin and regenerates new skin cells. The efficiency of this cycle depends on your skin type, your age, the products you use, and your environment. Just like anything else in life, the body is not perfect, so you may experience a buildup of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. That’s where a sugar scrub comes in, because they remove dead skin cells. 

Sugar scrubs are naturally abrasive without being too aggressive for the skin. By removing dead skin cells, the moisturizer you apply afterward will soak into the skin more easily and thoroughly. The exfoliation also helps to unclog your pores, prevent ingrown hairs, and reduce the risk of razor bumps. Additionally, when you do not remove dead skin cells, the skin can appear rough, dull, or cracked. Removing dead skin cells can yield a smoother, more even skin texture. 

Sugar For Skin Health

Sugar is a natural humectant, meaning it will hydrate your skin and preserve whatever moisture is already present. It is also a great source of glycolic acid, which works to break down the bonds between skin cells. This process facilitates cell turnover, helping you achieve more youthful-looking skin. The small sugar particles make it an excellent exfoliant, which is the reason a lot of body scrubs contain sugar, not salt. They are also much gentler than salt particles, making them generally safe for most skin types. 

Cranberries For Skin Health

Sure, cranberry sauce is a popular condiment around the holidays, but cranberries are not solely reserved for holiday consumption. Cranberries are in a wide variety of skin care products because of their nutritional profile. They are naturally rich in vitamin E, a natural moisturizing antioxidant that may benefit those with acne or dark spots. Cranberries are filled with vitamin C and salicylic acid, both of which work together to reduce hyper-pigmentation, lighten blemishes, and reduce acne scarring. 

Which Carrier Oil Should You Use?

You can use any type of skin-safe carrier oil for this recipe. Popular varieties include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil. If you are looking for a guide on which carrier oil to choose for your skin type, click here for more information. Carrier oils work to deliver vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids to the skin, providing deep moisturizing, soothing irritation, and boosting elasticity. Some carrier oils may even help fight blemishes and promote a healthy glow. 

Orange Cranberry Sugar Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries 
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup sweet almond oil
• Zest from 1 orange
• 10 drops orange essential oil

Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until fully incorporated. 
• Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to one week. It will not keep fresh at room temperature. 
• To use, rinse your skin with warm water and then apply liberally on the skin, massaging gently. Rinse away with warm water and apply moisturizer or lotion as normal.

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