Adaptogenic Mint Chip Protein Smoothie

It seems like every few months there is a new health trend that pops up, from rose water to quinoa to kale and even blue-green algae. And, one the keeps buzzing around Instagram among health and wellness bloggers is Adaptogens. 

But, I'm sure you are wondering what adaptogens are? Let me break it down for you, because chances are you've been incorporating them into your diet without even realizing it. 

Adaptogens are herbs, roots, fruits, barks and mushrooms that help balance, restore and protect the body. They have been used in naturopathy, Ayurvedic medicine, and Chinese medicine for centuries; and they are now starting to gain popularity in the Western world. 

Taking adaptogens throughout your intense training prepares and protects your body from the added stress of exercise. Adaptogenic herbs can help regulate many kinds of stressors, plus they adapt both to the stressor, and also to the person taking them. Some adaptogens like Asian ginseng, Rhodiola Rosea, and maca help stimulate the body, enhancing mental performance and physical stamina. Others, like Ashwagandha, reishi, and holy basil, help calm the body and calm the adrenals when they’re super stressed. As you can imagine, they can be quite helpful and perfect for recovery from an active lifestyle.

As you increase your training, you increase the physiological stresses put on your body. These added stresses force your body to use its natural defense mechanisms to help repair and replace any damage that has occurred. Using adaptogens essentially allows this defense mechanism to work more efficiently, and incorporating them into your diet can help promote better recovery and performance.

There are also herbs like mint, ginger, and turmeric that have adaptogenic properties that are commonly used for inflammation and help ease stomach issues like gas and bloat.

You can incorporate adaptogens into your daily routine by adding them to smoothies. This Adaptogenic Mint Chip Protein Smoothie combines one of my favorite flavor profiles with maca and cacao nibs and is great for a quick snack or post workout.

The combination of fresh mint leaves and maca is a perfect tonic for athletes and anyone leading an active lifestyle. Maca helps enhance vitality, stamina, and energy; while mint helps support the relief of muscle aches. You'll love the mild flavors of the ingredients within this smoothie, and the ultra smooth texture that is reminiscent of a milkshake!

So let's get blending!

Adaptogenic Mint Chip Protein Smoothie

Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk 
2 cups frozen spinach, frozen
1/4 avocado, frozen and cubed
1 tbsp cashew butter or any nut butter
1 tablespoons cacao nibs
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, minced*
1/4 tsp peppermint oil
1 scoop plant-based protein (vanilla flavored)
1 tsp maca powder
3-4 ice cubes

Garnish: mint leaves and cacao nibs

Directions

Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend for 60-90 seconds or until smooth.

Pour into a glass, garnish and enjoy!

This recipe makes one serving.

*You can substitute holy basil for mint. 

Do you take or incorporate adaptogens as part of your overall health and fitness routine?