ArcaMax

I went to my naturopathic doctor a couple of months back. I have been dealing with an infection in my digestive tract that I contracted after a series of antibiotic prescriptions. It’s been a nightmare. She had some new test results for me. One of the first things she told me was I am not getting enough protein. I squealed at her, “I eat protein and vegetables every day. They are the mainstay of my diet. How could I not be getting enough protein?!”

She’s just shrugged and said I needed to get more protein. My body was not absorbing the protein I was eating, or I was not eating enough. It was probably both because my digestive issues were making me lose my appetite. I told her I even put protein powder in my morning smoothie. “Have you tried Collagen Protein?" she asked. I had not even heard of it. So off I went to the grocery store looking for collagen protein. The pharmacist helped me find it. I found one that is vanilla flavor but has no sugar. (You have to be careful when buying protein powders. Many of them are chock-full of sugar). I made my first smoothie with it. I was in heaven. I don’t know exactly what it is about it but it gives your smoothie a really nice mouthfeel. And the benefits are GREAT.

Continue reading to find out what collagen protein is and how it benefits you...

Read the full column at PlanZDiet.com

Collagen Fruit Smoothie

One of my favorite breakfasts these days. So easy and quick. Refreshing and filling. Collagen protein powder is not cheap but the health benefits are HUGE.

Servings: Makes one smoothie

Ingredients:

1/3-1/2 cup of unsweetened pea milk (Pea milk is the greatest! I love the flavor and texture in a smoothie. If I don’t have pea milk, I use unsweetened coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk.)
1 scoop (2 Tbl) of the collagen protein powder
1/3 cup of berries (I use frozen strawberries, or raspberries and blackberries work too. You can really use any berries, or they make chunks of frozen mango now too for a tropical version. Assorted berry options work too. And if you want your smoothie a little thicker and fruitier, just add more fruit.)
1/2 cup of cold water
Stevia to taste

Instructions:

Put this all in your blender and whiz until it’s smooth. I use my Bullet blender for this job. No need to take out the bigger model.

Pour in a glass and sip or load it into your travel mug for a meal on-the-go.

My husband even opts for a smoothie for lunch sometimes.

Enjoy!
Cheers,
Zola