{Note: I wrote this post before heading out on the run, however it just didn’t happen, so it’s getting posted up right afterwards with some fun bonuses}
White Chocolate macadamia nut cookies are my all time favorite, so when I made a shake that reminded me of the cookie, I could not wait to share it! And it’s vegan!
I am getting ready to head out for the morning with my friend Katie, we have quite a run planned out that kicks off at 7:30 so I got to get moving.
Before I do though, I have to share this new shake recipe. It is simply the best smoothie I have ever made, seriously. And let’s face it, this whole shake thing isn’t new to me.
But first, I thought it might be interesting if I actually share with you, why smoothies (shakes) are so beneficial. And why it’s not just the weight lifting “grunters” who benefit from protein powder.
4 Benefits of Protein Shakes
They help weight loss.
When it comes to making shakes, they are really simple to toss together and easy to figure out calorie consumption. I know that my protein powder (SunWarrior) has 80 calories, if I add 1 cup milk, some pineapple and 1/2 banana, we’re talking about a less than 200 calorie snack and…
They fill you up.
Protein helps to satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling full. Carbs are broken down very quickly (beginning while chewing), but protein breakdown doesn’t happen until it hits your stomach. And even then it takes some time to break it all down. That means, you aren’t grabbing for something else to eat an hour later. Again helping you to keep your calories in check.
Workout recover.
Research shows that drinking a protein shake before, during or right after a workout helps to aid in muscle recovery. After a workout the flood gates to your muscles are open and they want protein and carbs to help them out after a tough workout. Give them what they need.
Protein adds calories.
While some people roll their eyes, an issue with a lot of women is that we simply don’t eat enough. Making a smoothie is great, but making a protein smoothie is better because it can up the overall calories and get you right where your body needs to be for day to day activity. Remember, weight loss happens a lot easier when you’re actually eating!
So with that, wanna give my White Chocolate Macadamia Shake a go?
Vegan White Chocolate Macadamia Shake
In a blender, blend together:
- 1/4 cup macadamia nuts
- 1 scoop vanilla protein
- 1/2 banana
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- Handful of baby spinach (or kale)
I don’t know what it is about these combined together, but it reminded me of cookie dough and was amazing. I’ll admit, I was really sad when I could no longer get any more up my straw.
What’s your favorite protein shake?
Historic 9-Miler
Since I wasn’t able to get this post up before my run, at least I have the opportunity to share some highlights with you. Katie is originally from Oklahoma so she is still getting familiar with a lot of Charleston.
I’m from a suburb of Charleston called Mt Pleasant, it has some absolutely gorgeous areas, more specifically “The Old Village” that I wanted to show her and have it as the backdrop of the 10 miler we had planned.
First there was the old Pitt Street Bridge, this is one of my favorite places. As kids, my parents would bring my brother and I here to play and fish off the side.
From here we ran over to Sullivan’s Island and back, somehow I miscalculated the milage and we ended up with 9 miles total, which I am a-okay with after some great workouts this past week.
Instead of adding the extra mile, we took advantage of the great weather and did what girl bloggers do:
And then I drove her around showing off some historical landmarkers, like this civil war graveyard that’s tucked away:
Dan and I watched Lincoln last night so I felt it was only appropriate. I LOVE civil war history. If you’ve never read With Malice Towards None: Bio of Abraham Lincoln, please do! It’s an amazing book. I <3 Honest Abe.
We had a great time, as we always do, and I felt truly blessed to be able to enjoy the morning with a running friend. I think we take things for granted far too often, but simply having the ability to toss on running shoes and enjoy such a wonderful run is a gift.
Here was another gift:
I tried out my new “Lock Laces”… more on that later though (and perhaps a giveaway).
What did you do (or planning on doing) this Saturday?