Paleo Protein Smoothie

This is my favorite Paleo protein smoothie made with PurePaleo. It is my go-to-breakfast, that I often recommend to many of my clients as the best way to start the day. Simple and fast to make, it is perfect for those who are following a Paleo diet or anyone who is sensitive to dairy, grains and legumes. Plus this Paleo protein smoothie is great for just about anyone (except vegetarians) who is looking for a delicious satisfying morning smoothie.

Packed with protein and good fats, as well as anti-oxidant rich veggies and fruit, it will keep you feeling energized and satisfied until lunch. It is also perfect for a recovery smoothie after your hard workout. I typically make this after my morning run or take it with me to the gym for after the workout.

Makes 1 large serving

• 1 cup unsweetened organic almond or coconut milk (homemade is best)
• 1 cup filtered water
• 1/2 cup organic strawberries and or blueberries
• 2 Tbsp. flax seeds, chia seeds, or ¼ avocado
• 2-3 cups washed organic spinach leaves or baby kale
• 1 scoop of PurePaleo protein powder
• 1 tsp. PaleoGreens or PaleoReds (optional)

Place water, berries, spinach and seeds in a VitaMix, Magic Bullet Blender or immersion blender and blend until smooth. Add the PurePaleo  powder and blend gently until just mixed through. It’s important to blend the powder last to maintain the delicate nature of the protein.

A Word About Smoothies

A commercial smoothie is not a healthy food. And although some of the ingredients used are healthful, it is typically loaded with sugar. To read more about sugar in commercial smoothies and green drinks click here. These smoothies are also low in protein or contain poor quality protein. You are better off making a smoothie at home and incorporating a relatively small amount of low glycemic fruit and/or greens together. The important components in a smoothie are good proteins, good fats, good anti-oxidant rich vegetables and fruit and a liquid. Super foods such as green powders are a great addition too.

Good Protein:

A good quality protein such PurePaleo, is important to add to help regulate blood sugar and for satiety. Avoid soy protein isolate as well as whey protein isolate. Avoid products that contain GMO’s and or are made from conventionally raised dairy and beef. Avoid protein powders that contain additives such as artificial sweeteners, colors and flavors.

PurePaleo comes from 100% grass fed cows’ raw milk and is available in either vanilla and chocolate. This exceptional protein source and others are available at Tri Holistic Nutrition Online Store. Shipping is free!

Antioxidant Rich Vegetables, Fruit, and Supper-foods:

If you are trying to lose weight  it is best to keep your fruit intake to a maximum of 2 servings per day so limit the fruit in the smoothie to 1 small piece or ½-1 a cup of berries. The darker the berries the better. Choose fruit which is low on the glycemic index such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries or raspberries.

A green apple or kiwis are also a good option when making a green smoothie. Spinach tastes great with some berries or banana (which is high on the glycemic index). You can experiment with other greens such as kale, collard greens, bok choy, mint, avocado, and cucumber. Adding a serving of PaleoGreens or other supperfoods such as Acai or Camu powder is a great way to add extra greens or if you are not sure you like fresh veggies in your smoothie. PaleoGreens and PaleoReds are both available at Tri Holistic Nutrition Online Store

Liquid:

Avoid adding fruit juice or sugary yogurt. Unsweetened organic nut milks, coconut milk, or plain water are a much better choice.

Good Fats:

Adding some flax, chia or hemp seeds adds essential omega 3 fatty acids. Avocado adds beneficial monosaturated fats and coconut butter adds a nice texture and healthy saturated fats. Coconut milk is also a good option. Adding good fats will help with satiety and blood sugar regulations.