I've never been a big breakfast person and get tired of eggs (as does everyone!) really easily. That's why I love starting my mornings with something light, yet balanced to keep me energized and satiated until lunch, such as a smoothie! This green smoothie recipe is great not only for breakfast, but also can be enjoyed in the afternoon as a pick me up!
Some popular breakfast choices today are typically: cereal, granola bars, protein bars, a piece of fruit, yogurt, or oatmeal. All of these are high in carbs (including the protein bar which tend to be higher carb than protein!) and contain minimal to no protein. When you eat carbs by themselves, they get digested and absorbed into the bloodstream rapidly causing a blood sugar spike. This is why you might feel a burst of energy after eating these foods. Following a blood sugar spike, instead of leveling back out, your blood sugar drops too low causing a drop in energy. This is often why people will experience mid-morning or mid-afternoon crashes.
Because carbs get digested and absorbed so quickly, they also fail to keep you full long enough causing cravings and frequent snacking. This is why it's so important to start your day with some protein or healthy fat in addition to your carbs. Pairing protein and/or healthy fats with carbs slows the breakdown and absorption of carbs preventing blood sugar issues and allowing for sustainable energy, steady mood, and even better sleep.
The other benefits of this smoothie for energy, sleep, and mood are the addition of adaptogens and matcha. I've been using Amazing Grass Adaptogen Powder which naturally regulates your stress response and keeps your mood and energy stable. I really feel the difference since using it! Lastly, matcha provides natural energy and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties making it an amazing addition to support your health.
Let me know if you try this recipe! Send me a picture or tag me on Instagram @jthwellness, I'd love to see!
Green Energy Smoothie
prep time: 5 minutes
total time: 5 minutes
servings: 1
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Ingredients:
1 cup oat milk
1 handful baby spinach
1 tsp adaptogen powder
2 tbsp flax/chia seed blend
Couple dashes ground ginger
2 scoops protein powder of choice (I used Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides)
1 handful of Dole Boosted Blends Energize Smoothie Pineapple + Mango
Optional: squeeze of lemon (for some acidity!)
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a blender; blend until smooth.
Tag me on social media if you make this recipe @jthwellness!
ABOUT JENN
Jenn Horowitz, FNTP, CPT, CES is a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Certified Personal Trainer, and Corrective Exercise Specialist who works to address the root cause of illness. Jenn is the founder of JTH Wellness, a holistic nutrition and wellness practice, specializing in helping people with stomach issues, disordered eating, and weight management problems, take back control of their health through 1:1 nutrition and lifestyle counseling. Jenn works to teach others how to live a balanced lifestyle that allows them to achieve their goals while enjoying life. Learn more about Jenn’s nutrition counseling services and schedule a free 15-minute discovery session by visiting her website, http://www.JTHwellness.com.
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