COCONUT CACAO SMOOTHIE

This coconut cacao smoothie is full of chocolatey goodness, packed with greens and perfect for natural energy. I love smoothies! I enjoy being creative and coming up with different recipes using a variety of superfoods, adaptogens and herbs. I make one every morning- it’s part of my daily routine and something I look forward to. 

Smoothies are a great way to pack in extra nutrients, vitamins and minerals. I’m not a coffee drinker so they help provide that extra energy boost which helps fuel my day. For this smoothie I chose to combine the flavor profiles of cacao and coconut because I thought they would pair nicely together to make a creamy, rich tasting smoothie full of healthy fats, fiber, greens, antioxidants and flavonoids. 

Cacao is considered a superfood and is a great source of magnesium, high in antioxidants, assists in balancing hormones and is also a brain healthy rich food containing flavanols. Promoting the widening of blood vessels which can improve cognitive function, cardiometabolic function and improve insulin resistance. 

Coconuts are also considered to be a highly nutritious functional food that is rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. It’s made up of medium chain triglycerides aka MCT mostly made up of lauric and caprylic acid. These have anti-microbial properties which naturally kill bacteria and fungi. The medium chain triglycerides found in coconuts break down into ketones which can be used as an energy source by the brain. 

Adding frozen cauliflower to your smoothie helps to lower the sugar content. Cauliflower pairs well with just about everything because it has a neutral taste. It is also high in fiber, easy to freeze and helps create a smooth creamy consistency. It’s one of my favorite ingredients to add to smoothies! 

E N T E R   A D A P T O G E N S . . .

I also added in medicinal mushrooms Reishi and Chaga which are two of my favorites. Reishi also known as the queen of mushrooms is a powerful adaptogen. It works by helping the body adapt to stressors- environmental, physical and emotional. It has grounding capabilities and also supports your immune system. Reishi contains polysaccharides, antioxidants and beta-glucans which boost the body’s immune system. Chaga contains high levels of B-vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and is a nutrient dense superfood. It also has strong anti-viral properties. It has a distinct earthy profile and enhances the flavors in this smoothie. 

Maca powder is great for balancing hormones and is often used as a natural way to help manage menstrual problems, improve fertility and during menopause. One thing I love about maca is it provides a boost of natural energy without the jitters you would get from caffeine. It’s full of vitamin c, iron, manganese and vitamin B6. 

Note from Sun Potion...

We have included 2 substitution options in this recipe where Samantha Reto's original ingredient is included as part of a Sun Potion blend with other herbs and adaptogens: our Anandamide is a blend of Raw cacao, Classic Tocos, Ashwagandha, Reishi, Mucuna Pruriens, Maca, Rose Petals, Moringa, Astragalus, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Cayenne, Cardamom, Black Pepper and Himalayan Pink Salt. It is like a spiced raw cacao blend! Our Green Adaptogen is a blend of Suma root, Maca root and sound-cracked Chlorella. We think they are fantastic substitutes if you are interested in adding even more herbs and adaptogens to this delicious recipe, though it may change the taste of the smoothie as it was originally intended.

Coconut Cacao Smoothie

This coconut cacao smoothie is refreshing, rich and absolutely delicious! If you make this recipe be sure to leave me a comment and let me know what you think. Be sure to tag me on Instagram with #nutrishable (and transformational foods #sunpotion and #apotionaday)! I love seeing all of your photos of my recipe re-creations! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

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All images courtesy of Samantha Reto