Chocolate Cacao Protein Smoothie

CHOCOLATE CACAO PROTIEN SMOOTHIE 

My morning feel good go-to smoothie! Because chocolate makes me happy! 

It actually does. Chocolate makes us all happy. Cacao produces feel good neurotransmitters (think Serotonin) that induce feelings of love and happiness.

Cacao can stabilise your mood and contains polyphenols, the antioxidant property in plants. We've all heard about the benefits of antioxidants! 

Naturally free from sugar, Cacao (not Cocoa) is the ultimate chocolate hit without the inflammation, sugar hangover and blahs brought on by processed cocoa and store bough chocolate milks and smoothies. 

Give it a go next time you need a little pick-me-up! 

CHOCOLATE CACAO PROTEIN SMOOTHIE 

250mls Cashew Milk or Milk of choice 

1/2 cup peeled frozen Zucchini*

1 tablespoon Cacao Powder

1 tablespoon Cacao Nibs + more for sprinkling 

1 serve Chocolate Protein of choice (I use a Chocolate Pea Protein that is family friendly and plant based)

Sweet tooth? Add 1/2 frozen Banana in place of zucchini and/or 1 Medjool Date to the mix.

METHOD 

In your Vitamix or high speed blender combine all ingredients in the order listed. Blend until smooth and creamy. Sprinkle with a few extra cacao nibs.

Enjoy! x 

NOTES: I've used protein powder here to make this shake a good meal replacement. The protein I use contains 24g per serve. 

No protein powder on hand? You can omit it and add things such as chia, hemp seeds or almonds (or all three!) to up the protein content.

Protein keeps us fuller longer and our blood sugar stable so it can be a good idea to try and sneak it into your smoothies when you can. 

Cacao and Cacao Nibs contain caffeine. Something to be mindful of for Pregnant or Breastfeeding Mummas out there! This smoothie contains approximately 25-30mg. Well under the advised 200mg (or less) a day limit, but something to be aware of if you were to have this on top of your daily coffee :)