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Tina Ruggiero | Nutrition Expert, Cookbook Author and Spokesperson

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The Science of Skinny and a Recipe for Jalapeño-Mint Smoothie

Jun 25, 2012 by Tina Ruggiero

Our bodies produce something called pancreatic lipase (PL). It’s an important enzyme that helps us digest, having a special knack for breaking down fats.

PL is secreted by the pancreas, and one of its main responsibilities is to help digest triglycerides. Without this enzyme, triglycerides can’t be absorbed by the intestines. With this in mind, researchers have been studying the inhibition of PL, theorizing that its suppressed activity may decrease fat absorption.

Studies have been done on animals and humans, and while there isn’t concrete evidence to suggest PL inhibition is a natural anti-obesity agent, certain foods have been shown to have the ability to suppress PL. More specifically, the plant compounds epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), kaempferol and quercetin have each been identified as potent PL inhibitors.

Green, black and oolong teas are an excellent source of EGCG; kale, beans, endive, leek, tomato, strawberries, grapes, Brussels sprouts, apples and grapefruit are rich sources of kaempferol, and red wine, broccoli, fennel and hot yellow and green peppers are all sources of quercetin — the latter being the inspiration for my absolutely delicious and refreshing smoothie recipe, below.

So, whether you’re seeking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, incorporating a variety of deeply-pigmented fruits and vegetables into your diet have benefits; washing them down with tea or red wine isn’t a bad idea, either. And if you’re like me with a taste for the piquante, you’ll enjoy getting your daily dose of quercetin from the jalapeño I snuck into this shake. ¡Buen provecho!

TINA’S JALAPENO-MINT SMOOTHIE

This surprising smoothie really isn’t hot at all; it’s just loaded with flavor. It makes a great snack or post-workout pick-me-up.

1/3 c fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and sliced
1 ¼ T light agave nectar
½ t lime juice
2 c plain, 0% Greek yogurt
Pinch salt
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a blender and whirl until smooth. Don’t be surprised if the mixture doesn’t combine, when you turn on the blender. Just stir it with a spoon to loosen it, then try and blend again. Repeat that exercise until the mixture is smoothie-smooth. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.

Makes 2, 1-cup servings

Filed Under: Beverages, Nutrition, Recipes, Wellness/Health Tagged With: greek yogurt, jalapeno smoothie, mint leaves, pancreatic lipase, quercetin

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. StanStarsky says

    Jun 26, 2012 at 9:24 am

    Sounds great…I like the idea of adding a jalapeno to a smoothie, it might just give it a nice extra kick of flavor.
    The science behind this is also very interesting and it is refreshing to get a well balanced perspective on the subject of fat absorption.

  2. Tina Ruggiero says

    Jun 26, 2012 at 12:49 pm

    Thanks for your comment, Stan. Let me know what you think of the smoothie, and keep the feedback coming!

  3. Meredith says

    Aug 6, 2012 at 12:31 am

    Hi Tina,
    this recipe looks fantastic. I am on day 13 of a 30 day juice cleanse and need some new recipes. I have been adding a lot of fresh ginger root to my juices because I love that kick it gives, but you’ve got me thinking I need to try some jalapeno next. Thanks much!

  4. Tina Ruggiero says

    Aug 6, 2012 at 5:33 pm

    Good for you, Meredith! Keep up the great work, and don’t hesitate to share any delicious recipes you’ve tried!

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