Smoothie-licious

Smoothies are always a great way to get an instant shot of fruits and vegetables, full of vitamins and nutrients. Here are two of my favourite ones.

This first smoothie a great pre-workout smoothie filled with potassium and protein. 

Protein a macro nutrient that is composed of amino acids is necessary for body and muscle function. Without protein muscles can atrophy and the body can function at peak levels. Nuts, milk, yogurt and hemp hearts are all filled with protein.

Potassium keeps muscles strong, reduces involuntary contraction (aka. cramping), reduces hypertenstion and maintains fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and electrolytes. 

Banana Peanut Butter Protein Powerhouse
Yield- 2 cups

Ingredients:
1 Banana
1  cup skim milk
1 TBSP natural unsweetened peanut butter
1 TBSP unpasteurized locally produced honey
1-2 tsp vanilla (or seeds of one vanilla pod)
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 TBSP hemp hearts

Blend all ingredients together and serve. You can also substitute plain yogurt for vanilla yogurt but then you might want to remove honey and vanilla. Vanilla almond milk or coconut milk can also be used in place of the dairy for a vegan version. Coconut water can be added for extra electrolytes. 


This second smoothie is a great pick me up for those days you are really hungover or just after a workout. Avocados are naturally filled with potassium and protein. Coconut water is also high in electrolytes and one of the best natural post-workout beverages. Berries are high in antioxidants which can help with proper cellular function. Both oranges and honey are rich in many vitamins and nutrients that are very beneficial to cellular repair and digestion, etc. in the body. 

After I drink this smoothie I feel like a million bucks! 

The Hangover Cure

Yield- 2 cups

Ingredients:

1 full orange- peel removed

1/2 avocado

1  cup coconut water

1 TBSP unpasteurized locally produced honey

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 TBSP hemp hearts

1-2 tsp Greens +

handful of berries (like strawberries or blueberries)

Blend all ingredients together and serve. To make a vegan friendly version add the other half of the avocado, add a little more coconut water and remove the yogurt. 

Enjoy!