Winter Chai Smoothie Recipe
I frequently enjoy smoothies in the morning. They are one of the only ways that my toddler will accept vegetables these days. But all the raw and cold ingredients are not ideal for colder seasons. According to Chinese Medicine, too much raw and cold foods can damage the digestive system and promote the production of dampness. So, I offer you my winter alternative and it is delicious! This is my son's favorite smoothie. Besides the milk, nothing in it needs to come out of the fridge, and the chai spices are warming and aid digestion. It is also full of good fats, which are so important. High in protein too. Fats nourish our tissues and along with protein, they help with muscle repair. I recommend this smoothie often to people who exercise a lot, are too slender, pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive. But many of us can benefit from a breakfast with good fats and protein.
I don't usually measure anything, but here are my estimates for 1 large serving or 2 small servings.
The basics:
1 large banana
1.5 cups milk - I like to use a coconut/hemp milk blend
1-2 raw egg yolks (you can use the separated whites in a scramble)
1 Tbs heaping nut butter - sunbutter, cashew or almond butter
1 tsp chai spice blend: 30% cinnamon, 30% ginger, 15% nutmeg, 15% cardamom, 10% clove (if you want to make it yourself, or just add a pinch of each.)
Add Ins:
1/2 avocado
1 Tbs hydrolyzed collagen - collagen is great for joint health and reproductive health, high in amino acids that are difficult to find in other food sources. Your hair, nails, skin, muscles and ligaments will thank you.
Cod Liver Oil - good source of vitamins A, D and K, as well as omega-3 fatty acids
1 tsp ashwagandha powder - adaptogen herb that supports a healthy immune system
1 Tbs pumpkin butter or puree, just because it's tasty
1 tsp cacao nibs - high inantioxidants
These add ins are what I like to include, but feel free to ask us for suggestions at your next appointment. Enjoy!
