Just found this protein shake recipe at a fitness challenge site. Boy, does it sound yummy! Can't wait to try it. Do you know the benefits of oranges (besides their soothing aroma when they are blossoming?). Check it out:
-Low in calories
-High in fiber (reduces risk of certain types of cancers and chronic disease)
-No saturated fats or cholesterol
-High in pectin which can be beneficial in eliminating toxins from the colon
-Has been shown to reduce cholesterol
-High in the powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C
-High in flavonoids (antioxidant; free radical scavenger; anti inflammatory; immune system support; healthy skin, mucous membranes and vision)
-Good source of vitamin B
-Good source of potassium and calcium
With a lineup of benefits like this, how can you go wrong (and who doesn't love a creamsicle?).
Here's the recipe. I would suggest using CASEIN protein powder (or whey + casein) if you are going to use this as a meal or snack. Whey powders are great for post workout (strength training in particular) recovery since whey is quickly and easily assimilated by the body. Casein powders will give a slower release of protein over a longer period of time and thereby keep you more satiated. I would also add a serving of a healthy oil such as flaxseed oil, coconut oil, etc. Udo's Oil has a plethora (I love that word!) of healthy oils. I've added it to my shakes and not tasted it at all! Finally, I would stick with a "whole" orange (not just the juice) and definitely NOT concentrate. Concentrate is easy, I'll grant you that, but you'll spike your blood sugar. You'll also eliminate the valuable fiber that slows absorption of fruit sugars. Blenders ready...
Orange-Banana Tropical Creamsicle
- 4 oz water
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 1 orange
- 1/2 banana
- 1 serving vanilla cream protein powder
- 2 handfuls of spinach (you can't taste it, trust me!) (Teri's note: try a "greens" powder instead of spinach)
-Low in calories
-High in fiber (reduces risk of certain types of cancers and chronic disease)
-No saturated fats or cholesterol
-High in pectin which can be beneficial in eliminating toxins from the colon
-Has been shown to reduce cholesterol
-High in the powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C
-High in flavonoids (antioxidant; free radical scavenger; anti inflammatory; immune system support; healthy skin, mucous membranes and vision)
-Good source of vitamin B
-Good source of potassium and calcium
With a lineup of benefits like this, how can you go wrong (and who doesn't love a creamsicle?).
Here's the recipe. I would suggest using CASEIN protein powder (or whey + casein) if you are going to use this as a meal or snack. Whey powders are great for post workout (strength training in particular) recovery since whey is quickly and easily assimilated by the body. Casein powders will give a slower release of protein over a longer period of time and thereby keep you more satiated. I would also add a serving of a healthy oil such as flaxseed oil, coconut oil, etc. Udo's Oil has a plethora (I love that word!) of healthy oils. I've added it to my shakes and not tasted it at all! Finally, I would stick with a "whole" orange (not just the juice) and definitely NOT concentrate. Concentrate is easy, I'll grant you that, but you'll spike your blood sugar. You'll also eliminate the valuable fiber that slows absorption of fruit sugars. Blenders ready...
Orange-Banana Tropical Creamsicle
- 4 oz water
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 1 orange
- 1/2 banana
- 1 serving vanilla cream protein powder
- 2 handfuls of spinach (you can't taste it, trust me!) (Teri's note: try a "greens" powder instead of spinach)
RSS Feed