Energy- and Metabolism-Boosting Smoothie

Now that it's Spring, I'm back on the smoothie train. Smoothies can be a great choice for adding to your breakfast meal rotation, or you can make them smaller to have as a snack. I've been enjoying this delicious blueberry coconut concoction pre- or post-workout. It's well balanced with healthy fat, protein and carbs plus it's simple and easy to make! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 2/3 cup coconut milk
• 1/3 cup filtered or spring water
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds 
• 1 Tbsp MCT oil
• 2 heaping Tbsp of collagen protein
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 

Let's break down the energy- and metabolism- boosting benefits of these ingredients: 

Blueberries 

Blueberries are one of the most nutrient-dense fruits out there. They're packed with antioxidants to slow aging, boost brain function, fight cancer and aid in weight loss. 

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are a wonderful superfood packed with fiber, protein, omega-3 fats, antioxidants and lots of vitamins and minerals. They are very easy to digest, boost your energy and metabolism to help you burn belly fat. They're also a great weight loss tool because they can absorb up to 10x their weight in water, slowing digestion to keep you full longer and reducing cravings. 

MCT oil 

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a special type of fatty acids which are quickly absorbed by the body and efficiently converted to fuel for immediate use, instead of being stored as fat. MCTs have been shown to enhance thermogenesis (heat production) in the body, thereby promoting fat burning. This is the MCT oil I recommend.

Collagen 

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. It's full of amino acids like glutamine, glycine and proline. It's great for your hair, skin and nails, repairs your joints, helps heal leaky gut, boosts metabolism, assists detoxification and helps you sleep. You can get collagen as a protein powder from grass-fed cows. I like this one.

Cinnamon 

Cinnamon adds a delicious sweetness while packing a nutritional punch. Packed full of antioxidants, cinnamon is very anti-inflammatory. It helps lower blood sugar levels and can also improve insulin sensitivity, which is essential for keeping blood sugar levels balanced. By slowing the sugar from releasing into the blood stream, cinnamon can help manage food cravings and weight gain. To learn more about all the amazing science-backed benefits of cinnamon, check out this article at Well-Being Secrets. 

Bottoms up! 

Steph x