RECIPE
CACAO POWER SMOOTHIE
This is my go-to smoothie blend in the morning.
It contains an abundance of macro-nutrients that keep my blood sugar balanced and my hunger hormones satiated for 4-6 hours. What are the not-so-secret ingredients? A scoop or two of a minimal-ingredient protein powder, a source of healthy fats (like MCT oil or an avocado), a dose of fiber (chia seeds or flax seeds), a medicinal serving of adaptogenic extracts for energy or mental focus (cordyceps or lion's mane), and a generous dusting of unsweetened cacao powder.
Ingredients
MAKES 1 SERVING
▪ 1½ cups almond milk or coconut milk (homemade or store-bought)
▪ 1-2 scoops vanilla grass-fed beef protein powder
▪ 1-2 Tablespoons cacao powder
▪ ½ teaspoon cordyceps or lion's mane extract powder (optional)
▪ ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
▪ 1 Tablespoon chia or flax seeds
▪ 1 Tablespoon MCT oil or nut butter
Instructions
Combine all the ingredients in a high-speed blender.
Blend everything on high for 40 seconds until well-combined.
Pour into your favorite smoothie cup — and drink slowly.
Notes
Protein Powder
Start with 1 scoop (~20g of protein). If you still feel hungry after 2-3 hours, use 1½-2 scoops going forward (~30-40g of protein).
Depending on your taste buds, a protein powder with monk fruit may be intensely sweet. I suggest that you cut the sweetness by splitting your scoop(s) with the unflavored/unsweetened protein powder.
Chia or Flax Seeds
Too much fiber too soon may affect digestion and cause bloating. Start with 1 teaspoon. If you do not notice any digestive reactions or overly full feelings within 3-4 days, then bump up to 1 tablespoon.
MCT Oil
If you haven't used MCT oil in your smoothie before, start small to help your stomach adjust. Start with one teaspoon and build up to one tablespoon over several days.