If you’re shredding down to look good when you’re nearly naked, it’s a safe bet you’re dying for something that tastes great.
This shake works post-workout, before bedtime, or as an entire meal replacement if you double up on the protein powder. Or, if the urge hits, it works as a snack to curb that afternoon sweet tooth. After all, sometimes you just need some chocolate. This shake delivers a chocolate fix from four different sources and comes in under 300 calories. Not bad for something that tastes so good!
Ingredients
8 ounces unsweetened chocolate almond milk
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
¼ cup frozen blueberries
2 raw asparagus spears
2 tablespoons chocolate peanut butter powder (such as PB2)
1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
1 heaping teaspoon cacao nibs
5 ice cubes
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a blender. Start with the almond milk to avoid clumping. Blend until smooth.
Total: 277 calories, 24 g carbs, 32 g protein, 8 g fat, 6 g fiber
The Superfoods
Blueberries: Nature’s reigning master of antioxidant is a strong source of vitamins A and C. Bonus: Peak season starts mid-May, so you can probably get them fresh. But in most instances, frozen is just as good if not better.
Asparagus: Don’t worry, the flavor of this super-food melts away into the shake, leaving you with just the benefits of fiber; folate; and vitamins A, C, E, and K. Asparagus also has high levels of the amino acid asparagine, a natural diuretic. Increased urination helps rid the body of excess sodium.
Ground Flaxseed: A holy-grail superfood, flaxseed is hailed for three main reasons: 1) omega-3 fatty acids, proven to maintain a healthy heart; 2) lignans, with antioxidant qualities to aid in reducing cellular damage; and 3) fiber, both the soluble and insoluble types, to promote healthy movement through the digestive tract.
Cacao Nibs: The least processed and most natu-ral form of chocolate has a slightly nutty flavor. In addition to adding that chocolaty-flavor effect, nibs contribute antioxidants, flavonoids, magnesium, and potassium to this shake.
by Amanda Burrill, MS
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