Primal Shakes

Since Chad is usually up a few hours before I am, I often have a smoothie waiting for me in the refrigerator.  : )  Since I am never up when he makes them, I have yet to snap any photos of my own.  So here is the post from Mark's Daily Apple that makes my morning routine a bit easier.  Thanks Mark and more importantly, thanks Chad!

Coconut Avocado

• 1/2 avocado
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 scoop whey protein
• 2-4 tablespoons water (optional, if needed for texture)
• 1/2 – 1 cup ice

Chocolate Almond

• 3 tablespoons almond butter
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 – 1 cup ice
• 2-4 tablespoons water (or other liquid)

Berry-based shakes tend to be higher in carbs and lower in fat, which is why we prefer drinking them right before or after a meal that is high in fat and protein, like eggs or steak. You can, however, up the fat content in either of these shakes by adding half an avocado, a spoonful of coconut milk or oil,  nut butter, or yogurt if you eat dairy.

Vanilla Berry

• 1/3 cup frozen berries
• 1/4 cup coconut water
• 1 scoop whey protein
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh mint

Blueberry Kale

• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup coconut water
• 1 stalk kale, chopped (stem removed). Kale is easiest to blend if you either boil it for 1-2 minutes or put it in the freezer for 30 minutes or so.
• 1 scoop whey protein