My Summer Morning Protein-rich Smoothie

I recently visited a dear friend for her birthday and she made us a similar version of this gorgeous mineral, and protein-rich smoothie.

We chatted about getting an abundance of protein to start the day and ward off adrenal fatigue and depletion. (This can cause chronic stress in the body and many of the nasty side effects such as brain fog, anxiety etc that we use our adaptogens to support us with.)

During the warm Summer months it can be nice to have a slightly cooling smoothie.

As always, I encourage you to invite your creativity, and switch around the fruit and spice components.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup frozen mango. (*Mango is rich in fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and is also anti-inflammatory, and in TCM, is known for its ability to tonify yin. It also helps to promote qi circulation, clear heat, and regulate water.)

1 pinch of saffron, bloomed (You must do this to receive the saffron’s flavor and benefits, and it can be done simply by putting your pinch of saffron in a little bowl with 1 tbsp of boiling water. Let sit for 10 minutes and voilà! *Saffron is like the sun; it can help stabilize and elevate mood levels, balances hormones, and tastes like a warm hug, amongst other properties.)

3/4 cup of raw plain milk kefir (or plant based yogurt to make it vegan) (contains about 6 grams grams of protein and an abundance of gut-healing and regenerating live cutures.)

Juice of 1/2 a lime

2 tbsp collagen peptides (Find your trusted grass-fed source you like that has no added flavorings, or sweeteners. I’ve been liking the Vital Proteins one. *Contains 9 plus grams of protein.)

1/2 tsp choice daily adaptogen blend (I especially like our Blissful Belly in this smoothie for its subtle sweetness from the fennel and *added digestion and inflammation support.)

INSTRUCTIONS

Blend all ingredients together, and serve in a favorite cup to enjoy outside or by a window!

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A little info about peptides….

What are peptides and what do they do?

Peptides are like voice notes to your cells—they give cells instructions on what to do. Scientifically speaking, peptides are short strings of amino acids: the building blocks of proteins. There are hundreds of thousands of peptides at work in your body right now (including hormones you probably recognize like oxytocin, insulin, and prolactin). 

Some peptides are readily available as supplements. 

An easy way to add them into your diet and routine, is with collagen peptides. They are typically found in skin care products and supplements but also studied for its potential to support bones and joints.