It seems like everywhere you turn this time of year, there's someone you hear about that has a cold or the flu. And if you've got an earache coming on, you'll definitely want to try the audiologist recommended tip I've shared on melting coconut oil, placing a few drops in your ear and leaving it in your ear for 15-20 minutes- antifungal and antibacterial properties.

My family was sick after the holidays so since then I've been pumping them up with Vitamin C with one of my favorite sources...Pineapple. Not only does it have more Vitamin C than an orange, but it also is an anti-inflammatory, which helps you to recover faster from a workout and is why it's good for people with arthritis or gout. Plus, there's no simpler way for me to get nutrients as smoothies, great for a meal replacement on the go or for the kids to get involved in the kitchen and eat up their vitamins in real food.

In addition to my love of Pineapple, you know there's going to be some coconut in there (because it's just a superfood) and if you remember from my Immunity Packed Pumpkin Smoothie, there's also going to be some of my other favorites. There's another boost of anti-inflammatory from spinach, a great source of plant-based protein providing your body with energy. I even get some omega 3s in there for heart health with ground flax seed. I will give you a quick side note here before getting to the good stuff. I interchangeably use chia seeds and flax seeds for heart and digestive health, but used flax seeds here for more of the aesthetic purposes. If you're looking at boosting protein, you should include chia seeds in your diet because they're a complete protein.

Last couple notes on the smoothie. If you're lucky enough to grab a fresh pineapple and let it ripen, I definitely recommend that. If it's not too ripe, you can always add a teaspoon or two of honey. Also, if you really wanted an extra boost of vitamin C, you should probably replace the spinach with kale, in which case I would definitely recommend the honey. And finally, if you want something a little thicker, add some ice. I wanted something my 16-month-old could suck up a straw, so it was a little on the juice vs. smoothie side.

~Have fun and live healthy!

Vitamin C U Later Sickness Smoothie

~Makes approx. 32 oz.

1 can Pineapple in juice

1 can Coconut milk

1 handful of Spinach

1 Banana

1 Tbsp Lime juice

1 Tbsp ground Flax seeds

Place all ingredients in the blender until combined. Enjoy!