Looking for a decadent yet guilt-free treat?
This Dark Chocolate Smoothie Recipe is the one you’ll ever need!
Chocolates have been a popular treat since the beginning of time. Thanks to the unique, rich, and bitter-sweet taste it provides. However, there was a point where chocolates earned bad publicity. They have been linked to weight gain, diabetes, and obesity due to its high sugar content. Due to this, further studies and research have been conducted to justify and see the good things about this natural food.
Eventually, their extremely bad reputation subsided. Chocolates, particularly the dark ones, can actually contribute a lot of health benefits when eaten in the right amounts.
They contain high levels of antioxidants that not only lower down our cholesterol levels, but can also help prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and coronary heart disease. Besides, the flavonoids of dark chocolate also improves our brain function by working on our memory and releasing happy hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Thus, instead of enjoying chocolates as a reward for a presentation or exam, consider consuming them before.
But, chocolates come in many forms. Which one’s the best one to get?
Good question! While chocolates are available in numerous forms, the darker ones are always the best choice because it contains the highest amount of flavonoids. Thus, pure cocoa or cocoa powder is your best option. However, this may be too bitter for some.
Fortunately, this Dark Chocolate Smoothie Recipe calls for cocoa powder. And yet, the bitterness is receded through the use of bananas and unsweetened almond milk. Top that with some fresh mint leaves, protein powder, and a pinch of salt and you’ll have a perfectly balanced, sweet, and decadent protein shake that’s not only good for weight loss but also cognitive improvement, making you stress-free and happy.
Dark Chocolate Smoothie [Protein Shake Recipe]
Ingredients
- 2-3 ea large ice cubes
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves washed, pat-dried
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a blender and give it a good swirl so that the protein powder is covered in liquid and won’t be flying everywhere.
- Blend until smooth. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For the vegan/vegetarian version, replace protein powder with a vegan one.
Nutrition
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