Anti-Bloat Protein Shake
Today’s recipe may seem a little contradictory, since protein powders are known to cause bloat. Still, they’re such a convenient and effective way to hit your protein goals that I wanted to try to find a way that wouldn’t leave me feeling so full because it’s such an uncomfortable feeling. Enter: liquid chlorophyll. You’re probably still sick of hearing that word from learning about photosynthesis back in middle school, but it really is such a superfood. This recipe only uses a teensy bit, but you’re going to feel the great benefits: anti-bloat, less intense hunger cravings, and a boost of energy.
I’ll walk you through how to make use the liquid chlorophyl, but the entire recipe is really quick and easy to make. Use the protein powder that best agrees with your body; so many of them make me feel nauseous, so I’m pretty limited on what I can use (always whey, never a vegan source, although I know many people find vegan powder to be much more anti-bloat friendly). It’s all about working with your body, rather than against it, so I hope that you enjoy this shake and it helps you reach your protein goals.
PS. One note on the spinach in this recipe: I personally freeze my spinach all the time; it just helps it last longer in my opinion. Frozen spinach also has less harsh of a flavor, so if you’re wary of including spinach in your smoothie, I highly recommend freezing it first, although it’s not necessary. The smoothie tastes great either way.
anti-bloat protein shake
ingredients
Makes one smoothie
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (this is the only one that doesn’t make me nauseous, but feel free to substitute with your personal favorite)
1/4 avocado
1 tablespoon chia seeds
Juice of one lemon
Handful of spinach (around 1/2 cup - fresh or frozen)
4-5 cups water
Handful of peppermint leaves
1/2 cup ice (5-6 cubes)
to prepare:
First, make the chlorophyll mint water:
In a blender, combine 4-5 cups of water, one teaspoon of liquid chlorophyll, and a small handful of peppermint leaves. Blend on high until thoroughly combined. This will make enough for you to have 3-4 protein shakes total; feel free to adjust the proportions if you only want one serving.
Next, place the chlorophyll mint water and the rest of the ingredients in a blender and blend until combined (around 30-40 seconds).
Serve immediately; the shake will lose its texture if you leave it in the fridge for too long.