To follow along with the recipe, click here!
'Tis the season to savor delightful treats, and we're thrilled to bring you a mouthwatering creation that's not only delicious but also a guilt-free alternative to those tempting Starbucks Frappuccinos. This Chocolate Peppermint Protein Shake is a must try and will satisfy all those sugary cravings!
We made this creation with our chocolate protein powder from Tru Supplements. Our protein powder can be used as more than just a resource for muscle growth and recovery - it can replace meals, aid in weight loss and its management, and also improve body composition if your goals are to have more lean muscle mass.
Creating a superfood meal replacement using our protein powder is an excellent strategy for those seeking a nutritious, convenient and quick meal alternative or even a tasty treat. Whether you're short on time, trying to manage your weight, or looking to supplement your diet, a well-crafted protein powder-based meal replacement can be a game-changer. Here's what such a meal replacement should ideally include:
1. Our High-Quality Protein Source
The cornerstone of a meal replacement smoothie is its protein content. Opt for our high-quality plant protein, made from rice and pea protein with 24 different vitamins and minerals. Having only 110 calories and packing 20g of protein per scoop, TRU protein can be used for smoothies that will replace a meal, or just as a snack to curve your sweet tooth while helping you build and maintain muscle mass for better body composition.
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2. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are essential for energy. In this smoothie we Include banana as a source of complex carbohydrates. These types of carbs not only provide sustained energy but also add a natural sweetness and thickness to your smoothie.
3. Healthy Fats
Don't shy away from fats; they're crucial for hormone production and cell health. We are adding sources of healthy fats with the chia seeds and almond milk. These will also help in making your meal more satiating, resulting in less cravings and sustained energy.
4. Fiber
Fiber is vital for digestive health and can also aid in keeping you full longer. Ingredients like the cacao, chia seeds, and the spinach are boosting the fiber content of this superfood smoothie.
5. Vitamins and Minerals
This smoothie not only has the fortified vitamins and minerals in each scoop of protein, but the banana, spinach, chia seeds, cacao, and mint are adding the micronutrients that actually keep your organs functioning in a healthy way.
Depending on your goals, you might consider adding supplements like creatine for muscle growth, probiotics for gut health, or green tea extract for metabolism.
6. Adequate Hydration
Finally, ensure that your smoothie is hydrating. I personally do not buy store bought milks, and choose to make my own. As simple as 3 cups of water with a tablespoon of organic almond butter blended for a few seconds should give you the healthy version of almond milk your body deserves, without the additives and harmful ingredients of store bought ones.
Benefits of Each Superfood Ingredient:
Banana: Full of antioxidants, may improve blood sugar levels, and support heart health.
High Potassium: Good for heart health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Energy Boosting: The natural sugars in bananas provide a quick energy boost.
Digestive Health: The fiber in bananas aids in digestion and can help prevent constipation.
Spinach: Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, iron, and manganese. It is also high in antioxidants, supports eye health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutrient-Rich: High in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium.
Bone Health: The vitamin K in spinach helps in maintaining bone health.
Eye Health: Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eyesight.
Mint: Relief from nausea, skin health, supports hormonal balance, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Digestive Aid: Helps in relieving symptoms of IBS and indigestion.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Beneficial for reducing pain and swelling.
Brain Function: Mint aroma is often said to improve alertness and memory.
Cacao Powder: Rich in antioxidants, heart health support, mood enhancement and cognitive benefits.
Heart Health: Rich in flavonoids, cacao powder can improve blood flow to the heart and brain and aid in lowering blood pressure.
Mood Enhancer: Contains compounds that can increase levels of certain neurotransmitters and promote a general sense of well-being.
Antioxidant-Rich: Helps in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Chia Seeds: Rich in nutrients, excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, promotes hydration and satiety.
High in Fiber: Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and maintaining a healthy gut.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Antioxidant Properties: Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals, aging, and cancer.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Superfood Smoothie:
Chocolate cream protein
1.5 frozen bananas
Handful of spinach (1 cup)
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons cacao powder
1 tbsp chia seeds
1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
Pinch of sea salt
3 sprigs of fresh Mint (2 for the smoothie and 1 for the garnish)
Dairy-free whipped cream (optional)
Directions:
- Place all ingredients except whipped cream in a blender. Save a piece of mint for the garnish.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into glass and top with whipped cream and mint garnish, if desired.
To follow along with the recipe, click here!
Nutritional facts
Calories: 402 calories
Protein: 29.5g
Fiber: 13.7g
Fat: 10.7
Carbs: 49.1g
*For more information on how to calculate your macros, visit TRU Macros.com*
