To protein or not to protein, that is the question. OK, so maybe that’s not THE question but it’s one that I get asked often by family and friends when it comes to post workout drinks. It can be a very controversial topic so I want to be clear that I am sharing my own opinion of what I have learned and what I know to be best for myself.
Personally, I enjoy a post workout protein drink, it has shown to improve my recovery time and also gives me the energy I need after a tiring training session (not mention they are delicious). So when it comes to recommending them to friends and family, I say yes. But, that recommendation comes with a big BUT. My largest hang up when it comes to protein drinks is the source of that protein, as in, what kind of protein powder are you using.
With anything these days, the source of my food is where I like to put my focus, that is the sustainable part of SET Lifestyle. There is a wide variety of powders on the market but I like to stick with a plant based protein that is full of earth grown nutrients and comes from bio-avialable sources. The search for such a protein powder led to me to Onnit which is an awesome company based out of Austin. They are on the forefront of plant based supplements and their Hemp Force protein is something that I have recommended time and time again (read on for more information about this wonderful product).
I tell you all of that to tell you this, a protein smoothie does not have to be complicated. With a good protein, a handful of greens and some liquid, you’ve got yourself an awesome post workout drink that is sure to help you power through the rest of your day. This simple green protein smoothie is just that, it’s simple and that’s why we love and I hope you will too.
WHY you should give it a try:
Spinach:
- The flavonoids and antioxidants, primarily those from the phytonutrients present, have been proven to help combat many cancers.
- High amounts of vitamin A are great for eye health and has anti-aging properties.
- The abundance of potassium has many benefits including- protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones.
Protein – I use Hemp Force Vanilla- Acai:
- In our home, we use many Onnit products, but the hemp force protein they have created is something we would choose to not live without.
- It is plant based hemp protein powder that contains freeze dried açaí berry, Chia and Flax seed, and omega rich hemp seed that creates a powerful protein superfood. Not to mention, its delicious.
- Hemp is one of the greatest post workout proteins you can provide for your body because it contains edestin and albumin. Edestin is a globular protein found only in hemp and contains a higher content of essential amino acids compared to soy protein. Consuming hemp protein and other foods with high albumin content can help boost the body’s ability to synthesize human blood albumin, offering all the health benefits of a complete protein.
- More simply put- hemp protein is more easily digestible for your system which means you will get more out of your post protein drink and it will be easy on your belly.
WHERE to get the goods:
- Spinach is a great farmers market purchase but is also available year round at your local grocery store.
- Hemp force is available for purchase through onnit.com.
HOW to enjoy it:
- This smoothie is a great post workout drink.
- Can also be made as a mid afternoon pick me up.
- It’s prefect for an on-the-go breakfast.
- 1 large handful spinach
- 1 cup non-dairy milk of choice, (we use almond or coconut)
- 1 banana
- 2 heaping tbsp peanut butter
- 1 scoop protein powder of choice
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- Blend together all ingredients except ice, until smooth.
- Add ice and blend until frosty.
- Enjoy!
