Written by: Vincent Pedre M.D. | May 17, 2024 | Time to read 4 min
Ingredients
1½ cups macadamia mylk (or similar) or hemp mylk (for a nut-free option)
1 scoop Nourish Vanilla Plant Protein Powder (optional, recommended)*
½ teaspoon blue spirulina
1 teaspoon bee pollen (plus more for garnish)
½ teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla flavoring (or vanilla extract, if not available)
½ large to 1 small frozen banana, cut into chunks (plus extra slices for garnish)
1 cup baby spinach leaves or ½ cup frozen spinach
¼ cup frozen raspberries
½ cup ice cubes or crushed ice
*Optional Add-In:
Nourish Vanilla Plant Protein: Starting your day off with protein is the best way to boost your metabolism. The mistake I see most people make when trying to lose weight for the summer is thinking that a greens / fruit smoothie is a “diet hack,” when in fact it’s missing the key ingredient needed to activate your metabolism — protein!
I recommend adding a scoop of NOURISH protein powder to turn this smoothie into a metabolic reset. It blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, enhancing your smoothie with high-quality plant protein that supports lean muscle mass and overall well-being. It’s also supercharged for fat burning with 120 mg conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) per serving. Nourish Vanilla makes the perfect match for this recipe, adding a creamy texture and a boost of vanilla flavor without any artificial ingredients.
Steps
1. Add: Plant-based mylk to your high-speed blender.
2. Blending (Part 1): Add all the powders and non-frozen ingredients (first 5 ingredients listed) in the blender and blend until smooth.
3. Blending (Part 2): Add all the frozen ingredients and blend until smooth.
4. Pour: Into a favorite mason jar or your favorite glass. (Bonus points if you take a picture, share on IG and tag @drpedre + #happygut to showcase your creation!)
5. Garnish: Decorate with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of bee pollen.
6. Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor every sip!
Why You'll Love This Smoothie
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Every component of this smoothie serves a purpose. From the potassium-rich bananas to the protein-packed Nourish powder, each ingredient works to fuel your body and metabolism in its own unique way.
Fat Burning: Nourish Vanilla formula also includes conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is a real game-changer. CLA is a special type of omega-6 fatty acid that can help with fat loss and muscle preservation. Basically, it helps your body burn fat more efficiently while keeping your muscle mass intact. Plus, it’s been shown to boost immune function, so you're not just looking good but feeling great too.
Metabolism Boosting: Eating protein can significantly boost your metabolism due to its high thermic effect, which means your body burns more calories digesting and processing protein compared to fats or carbohydrates. To maximize these metabolic benefits, aim to consume 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight daily; for instance, if your ideal weight is 150 pounds, you should be consuming between 120 and 150 grams of protein each day.
Antioxidant Power: Blue spirulina not only gives this smoothie its stunning color but also packs a punch of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Digestive Support: The fibers from bananas and spinach support digestive health, while bee pollen helps boost immunity and alleviate inflammation.
Health Benefits
Enhances Energy Levels: This smoothie is an excellent source of sustained energy, perfect for starting the day or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Supports Muscle and Bone Health: With the addition of Nourish Vanilla Plant Protein, your body gets the essential amino acids it needs to repair and build muscle tissue, as well as support bone health.
Boosts Immunity: Ingredients like bee pollen are known for their health-boosting properties, including improving immunity and providing vital nutrients. You can learn more about the importance of bee pollen in my blog post: Fake Honey! The Shocking Truth…
Fun Fact
Spirulina has been recognized for its nutritional value, especially in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins (including B12 and folic acid), and minerals like calcium and iron, which are beneficial for bone growth and protection against osteoporosis and blood diseases. Spirulina also contains antioxidants such as selenium, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin, contributing to its potential as a powerful antioxidant and an ideal superfood to boost energy and for overall wellness.
Final Thoughts
This Blue Breakfast Smoothie is a statement of health and vitality. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast option or a refreshing post-workout treat, this smoothie ticks all the boxes for a nutritious and delicious choice. So, blend up this gorgeous blue wonder, and start your day on a bright, healthy note!
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Happy blending!
