Smoothies are one of my favorite ways to start the day. They are quick to whip up (like this banana, mango and kale smoothie) and they are chalk-full of nutrients. Since I started working at the Garden of Life, I have access to a variety of whole food supplements and protein powders to experiment with in my recipes for my personal blog post. I feel like my job is my playground to invent ideas and concoct new recipes for my side hobby. It is a beautiful thing. My co-worker and friend Vanessa and I brainstormed an idea to add in GoL’s Grass Fed Collagen Peptides and Dr. Formulated MCT Powder. The results! A delicious, healthy smoothie with added beauty, anti-inflammatory and energy benefits. Read on for the recipe.

Beauty from With-in Smoothie
Achieve a boost in energy, youthful healthy skin, strong hair and nails and support for your joints and mobility with this smoothie recipe made with Garden of Life Collagen Peptides and Dr. Formulated MCT Powder. Collagen in the form of peptides is said to be superior to that of collagen bone broth because it is easily absorbed into the blood stream. Another ingredient that I like to use in my morning smoothie is MCT Powder because it provides a fast source of energy for the body and brain. …making this the perfect breakfast smoothie or late afternoon pick-me-up. I use the MCT oil a lot in my salads and over veggies…it is even wonderful as a moisturizer for dry skin because it does not leave a greasy film. While the oil is great for so many things, I’ve found that the MCT Powder is way better in smoothies because of it’s blendibility and creamy texture.

Ingredients:
3 Cups Almond or Coconut Milk
2 Banana peeled and chopped
1 Mango peeled and chopped
1 1/2 Cups Kale
3 Tbl Vermont Maple Syrup
1 Scoop Garden of Life Collagen Peptides
1 Scoop Garden of Life MCT Powder
Dash of Cinnamon

Recipe:
Combine all of the ingredients in a blender or Vitamix. Pour mixture into a tall glass and garnish with a dash of cinnamon diced mango.

Suffering From Inflammation? If you are suffering from inflammation, you will love this substitute for your smoothie. At 49, I am trying to work out like I’m 29. I have a lot more aches and pains these days…however, slowing down is not an option for me. Recovery time just isn’t what it used to be. Ahhh, the good ole days. I’ve found turmeric to be one of my go-to’s when it comes to healing the inflammation in my body due to a powerful work out. And I love our GoL Multi-sourced Collagen with Turmeric. Vanessa and I gave it the taste test and discovered that the flavors are a perfect compliment to this smoothie recipe. Read below for substitute suggestions. 

Inflammatory Response Smoothie
For an inflammatory response smoothie, substitute the Grass Fed Collagen Peptides for the Milti-sourced Collagen Turmeric and add a dash of nutmeg.