Disclosure: This post is sponsored by LMNT. As always, all opinions are my own.
Chocolate, coffee and electrolytes — everything you need for a creamy, dessert-like post-workout protein smoothie!
As a Nutritionist, I strategically structure my meals to help support my weight loss and wellness goals. After I’ve hit the gym and I’m ready to break my fast, I make sure to whip up a smoothie that best supports recovery and stable blood sugar levels while also tasting *amazing*. So today, I’m sharing the most recent smoothie that has been added to the break-fast rotation ~ my Post-Workout Mocha Protein Smoothie.
Key Ingredients
Zero Sugar Whey Isolate Protein Powder
Whey protein powder is one of the most studied supplements ever. It’s consistently been found to help aid in muscle recovery while also supporting a body recomposition goal ~ this is where you lose body fat while maintaining muscle mass.(1) Whey protein isolate is a specific type of whey protein that has been filtered to help remove trace amounts of lactose, making it a better option for those who are lactose intolerant.
I use my pasture-raised zero sugar whey protein powder after my workout. You can check out my protein powder HERE.
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Our delish bestselling zero added sugar, gluten & heavy metal tested whey protein powder!
Electrolytes
When we workout, we lose water and electrolytes. This loss in electrolytes can result in headaches, low energy or muscle cramps.(2) Anyone who has experienced a calf cramp in the middle of the night knows just how much this should be avoided! To help replace those lost electrolytes, I used zero sugar Chocolate LMNT electrolytes in my smoothie. Electrolytes also help to enhance the sweet flavor of this smoothie without adding in sugar. Win, win!
Pssst – don’t have zero sugar LMNT Electrolytes? You can find it HERE.
Banana
Banana is a medium glycemic load fruit, so it’s important to not add too many bananas to a smoothie if you have a weight loss goal in mind. However, using 1/2 banana keeps the sugar content low while still providing some carbohydrates to refuel muscle glycogen post-workout.
Chia Seeds
If you haven’t used chia seeds in a smoothie before, it’s about to be your new staple! Chia seeds are incredibly rich in fiber with a whopping 7 grams per 2 tablespoons. This high fiber content aids in slowing the release of sugar into the body, allowing for a more stable blood sugar level.
Almond Butter
Almond butter is an excellent source of high quality fats to help provide the body energy post-workout. Fat also stimulates the satiety hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) which prevents hunger or cravings between meals.
Equipment Needed
- Blender
Ingredient Swaps
- Unsweetened almond milk: Use any nut or seed milk. But I don’t recommend oat milk.
- Coffee: Try decaf if you’re caffeine sensitive.
Storing and Meal Prep
You can blend this smoothie the night before and store it in a sealed glass container for the next morning. When you’re ready to drink the smoothie, just give it a quick shake!
Tips From The Nutritionist
Autumn Bates, CCN, MS, BS, CPT
Try adding in a scoop of unflavored collagen as well to help further boost recovery!
Did you love this recipe? Let me know in the comments below!
Healthy Mocha Protein Smoothie
Ingredients
- 5 ounces unsweetened almond milk
- 5 ounces brewed coffee cooled
- 2 scoops Autumn's Chocolate Protein Powder
- 1/4 stick chocolate LMNT electrolytes
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Equipment
Nutrition
Did you try this recipe?
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