Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Espresso

The Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Espresso ingredients are:

• bananas
• espresso
• cacao powder
• whey protein powder
• Collagen Boost, optional

Bananas – Bananas are very healthy, readily available, and one of the least expensive fruits you can buy. They have relatively few calories, are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, are full of potent antioxidants including flavonoids and animes, and are high in dietary fiber. Studies have shown that bananas can improve insulin sensitivity and may improve kidney health.
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Espresso – Coffee is widely used for its ability to enhance focus and provide an energy boost. It contains the central nervous system stimulant caffeine which increases energy levels and reduces fatigue. Coffee has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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Cacao – Cacao powder, commonly used as a base ingredient for chocolate, is made by grinding up coco beans and removing the fat. Its main health benefit comes from an abundance of polyphenols, a naturally occurring group of antioxidants. Cacao powder is a heart-healthy ingredient, known to reduce high blood pressure, improve blood flow to your brain, lower the risk of stroke, and improve Type 2 diabetes symptoms.
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Whey Protein Powder – Whey protein powder is the most highly studied nutritional supplement readily available, providing great nutritional value and numerous health benefits. In addition to high quality protein, it also contains bioactive peptides called lactokinins. Whey protein powder promotes muscle growth and maintenance, helps lower blood pressure, can lessen the effects of Type 2 diabetes, and reduces inflammation.
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A standard blender is all that is required to make these delicious smoothies. If you are making it for just one person, we recommend using the truly amazing personal NutriBullet Ultra as it is super-quick to set up and very easy to clean.

If you are making them for more than one person, we recommend a higher-end Vitamix blender that can process larger loads more efficiently.

For overnight storage, we recommend using a glass or BPA-free airtight container with a resealable lid.

The Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Espresso is very easy to make:

• Step 1: Place bananas, espresso, cacao powder, whey protein powder, water and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
• Step 2: Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
• Step 3: Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
• Step 4: Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.

For ease of use, we recommend peeling and slicing a number of bananas, putting them in a freezer bag, and storing them in your freezer for quick access.

If you don’t have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.

If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute the water with almond milk or regular milk.

For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a handful of spinach or a tablespoon of flaxseeds.

To make this smoothie dairy-free, replace the whey protein with a plant-based protein powder such as pea or hemp.

Smoothie King: Website

Editor-In-Chief

Elle Kenwood

Elle Kenwood co-founded Make Drinks in 2013 and serves as its Editor-In-Chief.  An active CrossFit Level 3 Trainer with a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin, Elle leads the team in curating and developing delicious smoothie and juice recipes, literally wearing out several blenders every year. • Connect with Elle on Facebook and Pinterest. • Send recipe ideas to Elle at: [email protected]