This Strawberry Coconut Energy Smoothie is a refreshing and light but packed with energy and nutrients to keep you full all morning!  

This post is sponsored by Natural Citizen, all opinions and thoughts are my own.  

Recently my friends at Natural Citizen reached out to see if I would like to try their vegan protein powder and smoothie boosters.  Although I usually rock with the whey protein for me, I’m always looking for a new vegan protein for Mr. Hungry.

Although Mr. Hungry, like many of my clients has a sensitivity to green pea protein, yellow pea is fine.  So when Natural Citizen confirmed they used yellow pea protein in their organic protein blend we couldn’t wait to try it! They gave me the option of trying any of their smoothie boosters which include digest (great source of prebiotics), energy and greens.  They all pack an awesome nutrition punch but after some deliberating I decided to try the energy smoothie which contains 10grams of their energy blend.

Quinoa (Entire Sprout)

You guys already know that I love quinoa, I have about a million quinoa recipes here at HH.  I’ve written numerous times about its benefits in providing stable complex carbohydrate with high protein and high fiber compared to other grains.  (Actually quinoa is a pseudo grain- a seed that mimics the profile of a grain.)  Carbohydrates are crucial to optimal energy and managing the stress response.  Not only are they required to spare protein for muscle recovery, but they are also needed in conversion of thyroid hormones and other crucial functions.  Diets too low in carbohydrates (less than 50g per day) have been shown to promote an increased stress response on the body.

Maca Root

Maca root is known to have many benefits including supply B Vitamins, as well as Vitamins C and E plus minerals.  It is thought to have a natural energizing effect, be a natural aphrodisiac and boost fertility in both men and women.  Do to its hormone balancing effects it may help to remove symptoms of depression and anxiety in menopausal women as well.  It’s considered the fertility secret of the population living in the Andes.  It is also thought to strengthen the immune system by boosting levels of antioxidants glutathione and SOD.

Green Tea Leaf Powder

Green Tea (drinking and in powder form) has numerous benefits including increased energy, decreased stress and antioxidants that boost the immune system.  Check out this post on the benefits of Green Tea here and see a Matcha Green Tea Smoothie.

Organic Rhodiola Rosea (root)

This herb has demonstrated the ability to decrease cortisol (our bodies natural stress hormone) production and calm down an overactive flight or fight response.  Since excess cortisol is known to promote fat storage especially around the middle, this supplement is often promoted as a “belly fat burner.”  Like green tea, the emotional calming effect of Rhodiola may help strengthen the immune and nervous system as well.

Want to try it?  You can use code HUNGRYHOBBY to get $10 off on your first order!

Strawberry Coconut Energy Smoothie

This Strawberry Coconut Energy Smoothie is a refreshing and light but packed with energy and nutrients to keep you full all morning!  

I actually made this two times for my mother in law (first time my camera battery died #foodblogfail).  The texture is much smoother than many other plant based proteins and the smoothie booster was virtually tasteless, it didn’t add a weird earthy flavor so it could easily be added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt etc…

This Strawberry Coconut Energy Smoothie is filling from the coconut milk and protein, plus the perfect energizing morning smoothie that with all the stress relieving boosters will help you tackle the most hectic morning with energy, focus, and clarity.  Definitely give it a try and let me know what you think!

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops of Natural Citizen Organic Protein
• 1 scoop of Natural Citizen Organic Energy
• 1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk
• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• 2tsp honey (optional)
• 1/2 cup ice
• 1/2 cup unsweetened non dairy milk or water
• coconut flakes (optional topping)

Directions:

Blend and enjoy! Top with desired toppings like coconut flakes for a smoothie bowl!

Analysis does not include (non dairy milk or coconut flakes).

Don’t forget, Natural Citizen is offering a special discount for HH readers only! You can use code HUNGRYHOBBY to get $10 off on your first order!