4 Mouthwatering and Low-Sugar Protein Shake Recipes

I LOVE SMOOTHIES! Healthy protein smoothies are the cornerstone of jumpstarting your weight loss and flattening your abs. Even weight loss smoothies that claim to be “healthy” can be full of sugar and empty calories…which can be killing you! For most of us, our relationship with sugar is bittersweet. We all know it’s a dieting no-no. And, these days, foods ranging from protein shakes to cereals to barbecue sauce all contain some sort of sugar. The problem is that when we eat sugar (especially the refined and processed variety), it’s almost immediately broken down into glucose and pumped into the bloodstream, giving us that  “sugar high,” usually followed by a crash and burn.

But have no fear! The four protein shake recipes below are low in sugar, and high in taste.

Plus, here are 6 reasons why you’ll love these protein shake recipes:

1. Low in sugar
2. Easy to make!
3. Packed with nutrition
4. Keep you energized
5. Help you slim down
6. Convenient while on-the-go

Try adding any of these 6 ingredients to pump up the nutritional value of your smoothies:

1. Maca Powder just 1 tsp boosts energy and vitality
2. Parsley  contains lots of iron
3. Aloe vera detoxes the colon
4. Spinach or kale – think green to get lean!
5. Ginger is perfect to aid digestive issues. I’m always adding it to my smoothies for a morning burst!
6. Flaxseed oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids…perfect to protect bone health and helps prevent heart disease.

Try these 4 delicious weight loss smoothie recipes:

Blueberry Sunrise Protein Shake

Ingredients:
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
3⁄4 cup blackberries or blueberries
1 scoop (2 tablespoons) vanilla or chocolate protein powder (I recommend using the Kathy Smith Protein Shake)
 Directions:
Combine water, berries, and protein powder in blender. Cover and blend until smooth. For a thicker shake, use less liquid. For an icier shake, add ice. Serves 1.

Green Machine Smoothie

Ingredients:
1 C. broccoli
1 1/2 C. cold water
1 leaf kale
1 C. arugula
1/2 avocado
1 juiced lemon
Optional: 1 serving vanilla or chocolate protein powder (I recommend using the Kathy Smith Protein Shake)

 Directions:
Put all ingredients into a blender. Add more water as needed. Best if served cold.

Tropical Chiller Protein Shake

Ingredients:
8 oz. unsweetened almond milk
1/2 C. drained canned pineapple tidbits
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I recommend using the Kathy Smith Protein Shake)
1/8 tsp. coconut or almond extract
Garnish with fresh mint

 Directions:
Combine water, pineapple, protein powder and coconut extract in a blender. Cover and blend until smooth. For a thicker shake, use less liquid or add ice. Yield 1 serving.

Strawberry Chocolate Protein Shake

Ingredients:
1 cup Mixed berries
1 cup Unsweetened almond milk
½ cup ice
1 tsp maca powder (optional)
1 serving vanilla or chocolate protein powder (I recommend using the Kathy Smith Protein Shake)

 Directions:
Combine all ingredients blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Enjoy!