August weather is typically hot and sweltering – the perfect time to consume an ice-cold protein-rich matcha smoothie! Every ingredient in this berry protein matcha smoothie is good for the body.
Almond Milk:
Unsweetened almond milk is lower in calories than regular cow’s milk, contains no cholesterol or saturated fat, has calcium & Vitamin D (though not as much as cow’s milk), Vitamin E & is low in carbohydrates, which means it won’t cause blood sugar spikes. It contributes to both muscle and digestive health, and does not contain lactose, perfect for those who are intolerant.
Banana:
Bananas contain tryptophan, which is then converted to serotonin. It’s the perfect mood-booster. They help to keep you going during a strenuous workout and protect against muscle cramping. Rich in Vitamin B-6, they help to reduce swelling, as well as assist in the production of white blood cells. Eat a banana to lower blood pressure, thereby preventing heart attack or stroke.
Blueberries:
These tiny little bluish-purple berries have some of the highest antioxidant levels among all fresh fruit. They promote urinary tract health, as well as keep your vision at its best. They aid in digestion and weight loss, along with heart disease and cancer prevention. What doesn’t this berry do?
Protein:
There are many different forms of protein supplements out there, powder being the easiest and most portable. It’s easily mixed into beverages, cereals, puddings, and even baked goods! Protein is necessary for muscle growth and maintenance, which in turn helps you burn fat. Most protein powders contain amino acid chains, fundamental components for our tissue. Best part is, if you don’t have time for a meal, a protein shake can give you the nutrients you need to keep you on the go!
Matcha:
Superfine green tea powder contains a multitude of vitamins and antioxidants. It enhances a sense of calm and well-being, boosts memory, and increases alertness and focus. In a regular cup of green tea, you only ingest a portion of the benefits, since you’re only getting the steeped liquid. With matcha, you’re getting the whole entire leaf, along with all of its healthy aspects!
All of those wonderful foods combine to create one powerful beverage! Here’s to your health!
Matcha Berry Protein Smoothie
Recipe from DoMatcha’s recipe book. Sign up for their newsletter to receive your free copy today!
(2 Servings ) Matcha blends wonderfully into any drink: lemonade, cocktails, eggnog, chai, steamed milk, or even just plain iced water with a twist of lemon! Use DōMatcha Ceremonial Grade for slightly more L-theanine; use DōMatcha 2nd Harvest for slightly more EGCG.
Ingredients:
2 cups vanilla almond milk
1 ripe banana
1 cup frozen blueberries
2 scoops protein powder
2 teaspoons DōMatcha
Directions:
Put banana and blueberries in the bottom of the blender. Pour almond milk and protein powder on top, and blend for 30 seconds or until frothy. Because matcha is very delicate, blend it at the very end for just a few seconds. The blueberries give the smoothie a beautiful purple hue, and the banana gives it a rich, creamy texture. Yum!
