Almost exactly 2 years ago, I posted my Power Smoothie recipe to this blog. It’s become one of the most visited posts on my blog. If you search Google for things like “Maca Power Smoothie” my recipe is in the first few results.
Recently I read a book called Superfoods by David Wolfe and I changed the recipe to add another superfood, cacao, that completely changes the taste (think chocolate!) and makes the smoothie more energizing.
What are superfoods, you might ask? They are special plant-based foods that are some of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, but they also have several unique medicinal properties. They may help with detoxification, balance hormones, boost the immune system, improve mood, or heal infections.
About the new ingredient: Cacao
All chocolate is made from cacao beans, but unfortunately most chocolate products (e.g. Hershey’s bars) are heavily processed and packed with sugar and artificial ingredients. Real cacao beans are packed with nutrients such as magnesium and iron and contains the highest concentration of antioxidants of any food in the world (15 times more than blueberries). Plus, in clinical studies chocolate has been proven to increase brain blood flow and function. Cacao was so revered my the Mayans and Aztecs that they used the beans for money instead of gold!
This vegan Superfood Smoothie receipe contains 4 of David Wolfe’s top 10 superfoods: Cacao, maca, hempseed, and coconut oil. I’m planning to try adding a fifth, spirulina, soon.
Here is the recipe:
- 1 organic banana
- 2-3 cubes of ice
- 2-3 tablespoons ground cacao nibs — Nibs can be purchased online (here’s a good site). I use a small coffee grinder to make fresh cacao powder.
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seed – A great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. (I use Barlean’s FortiFlax)
- 1 tablespoon organic extra virgin coconut oil – The healthiest of oils, supports your thyroid and gives you energy.
- 2 heaping tablespoons hemp protein powder - Yes, hemp - for your health. It’s one of the most complete sources of protein around (I use Manitoba Harvest)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon maca powder – Maca is a root grown in the highlands of Peru. It boosts energy, balances hormones, and even increases libido. You will notice the effect after a few doses. (I use Macasure)
- Hemp milk - as needed to achieve a drinkable consistency
- OPTIONAL: 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey to sweeten
I love the taste and texture of this smoothie and the cacao provides a noticable boost in energy. I use the smoothie primarily as a recovery drink after exercise. Enjoy!
Sounds cool. Does Whole Foods have these ingredients ?
Whole Foods should have everything except maybe the Cacao and Maca. If not they are easy to find online.
What is the approximately per smoothie cost? $30?
Ben, the real questions is how much does it cost NOT to drink it ;-)
Has anyone seen this free video and report on how to use superfoods to lose weight and increase your energy? It’s pretty awesome. Just thought I would pass it along! http://www.wellnesswithrose.com/77superfoods/freereport.html
Dude, you should totally check out my blog :) I think you would like it! Check out one of my latest post that has a smoothie using Cacao: http://organicclimber.com/?p=310 It’s a RAW Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie, although no peanut butter is involved. My blog focuses on RAW foods and climbing.
Btw, I’m Caleb from the Texas Mountaineers. And the bike you have pictured in the previous post is the exact bike my roommate has.
Oh, and where do you get your Maca?
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