Morning Delight Smoothie

My friends, we are entering smoothie season here in the southwest. Summer is in the air and my blender is on. If you know me, you know how I adore chocolate. The darker and richer, the better.

 

 

Now, don’t get caught up in that false story that chocolate is bad for you. Raw cacao is considered a superfood due to its super nutritional profile. Raw cacao has 20 times more antioxidants than blueberries. Why do you want antioxidants in your diet? Exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins, like the sun, pesticides that are sprayed on plants, and even stress that our body creates are a few examples of harmful free radicals in our body. Antioxidants work to breakdown and safely remove these creating more balance in our system.

 

 

Studies have shown links between chocolate consumption and emotions and mood. When we consume cacao it increases serotonin levels (your happy hormone) in our body. So, eat the good stuff and smile.

 

Please note, I am talking about raw cacao here, or chocolate at high percentages of cacao. Not conventional chocolate that has added sugar. Make sure to always read your labels.

 

Here is a seriously tasty, and simple morning pick me up smoothie.

Ingredients:

Half a frozen or fresh banana

1/2 tablespoon raw cacao powder

1/2 tablespoon plant based chocolate protein powder (I use Vega)

1/2 cup raw spinach

1/2 cup frozen cherries

One handful almond or a scoop of almond butter

1 tablespoon flax meal

Ice

 

Blend well and enjoy!