Berry Smoothie with Chocolate

A berry smoothie with chocolate can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet. The 3 secret agents in this kids (big kids too) delight is agent #1. Chia- who brings anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids, agent #2 Coconut Water-who brings the energy boosting electrolytes and the crowd pleasing agent #3 Mr. Cacao himself boosting up your happy hormone serotonin. Who wouldn’t be protected with this trio of a gang!

Benefits of a Berry Smoothie with Chocolate

1. Rich in Antioxidants:
   • Berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries) are loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
2. Heart Health:
   • Berries have been linked to improved heart health due to their ability to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve overall arterial function.
   • Dark chocolate (especially varieties with a high cocoa content) contains flavonoids, which have been shown to benefit cardiovascular health.
3. Nutrient-Dense:
   • Berries provide essential vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin K) and minerals (like manganese), making your smoothie both tasty and nourishing.
   • Adding chocolate can provide minerals such as iron, magnesium, and copper, depending on the type used.
4. Cognitive Benefits:
   • The flavonoids found in both berries and chocolate may enhance cognitive function and improve memory, especially in older adults.
5. Mood Booster:
   • Dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins and contains serotonin, which can improve mood and promote feelings of happiness.
6. Fiber Content:
   • Berries are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Fiber also helps you feel full longer.
7. Versatile:
   • A berry smoothie with chocolate can easily be customized with additional ingredients like yogurt, milk (dairy or plant-based), protein powder, or even spinach for an extra nutrient boost.

A berry smoothie with chocolate can be a delightful, nutrient-rich treat that combines flavors and health benefits. It’s a great way to start your day or as a post-workout snack while providing a boost to your overall well-being.

Berry Smoothie with Chocolate

Power Food: Berries

Free From: Gluten, Dairy, Soy

Course Drinks

Keyword Smoothies

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 4 minutes mins

Servings 2

Calories 199.7

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond milk unsweetened
• 1 cup coconut water unsweetened
• 1 cup berries of choice
• 2 scoops French vanilla flavoured or hemp protein powder
• 1 banana
• 2 Tbsp. chia seeds or 1 tsp. ground chia seeds
• 2 Tbsp. natural almond butter raw
• 2 Tbsp. cacao powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract pure
• 4-5 cups ice cubes
• sprinkle of granola & a sprig of mint to garnish (optional)

Directions

• Add almond milk, coconut water, berries, protein powder, banana, chia seeds, almond butter, cacao powder, vanilla and ice cubes to a blender
• Blend until smooth and enjoy! You can sprinkle your favourite granola and add a sprig of mint to make it even more yummy and beautiful!

Notes

Nutritional Facts: Calories 199.7 | Total Fat 3.5 g | Saturated Fat 2.1 g | Monounsaturated Fat  1.5 g |   Polyunsaturated Fat 1.6 g | Cholesterol 0 mg |  Sodium  153.4 mg  |  Potassium 248.5 mg | Total Carbohydrate  26.3 g |  Natural Sugar 24.3 g  |  Dietary Fiber 4.2 g  |  Protein  25 g  | *Vitamin C 156% | *Calcium 90%  |  *Manganese 68.3 %

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs