Green Lactation Smoothie

The Green Lactation smoothie ingredients are:

• coconut meat
• dates
• spinach
• strawberries
• almond milk
• hemp protein powder
• pure vanilla extract
• crushed ice

Coconuts – Coconuts are a popular tropical fruit harvested from the coconut palm tree. They are an excellent source of protein and provide several important minerals, including manganese, copper, selenium, iron, phosphorous, and potassium. Coconuts are also known to promote heart health and help stabilize blood sugar.
[Amazon Fresh]

Dates – Dates are the sweet and chewy fruit of a palm tree that are typically consumed dried. They are highly nutritious, containing significant vitamin B6, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. Dates are abundant in disease-fighting antioxidants and have been shown to improve brain function by reducing inflammation and preventing plaque formation.
[Amazon Fresh]

Spinach – Spinach has long been a major staple of healthy eating. It is loaded with important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A producing carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K1, calcium, folic acid, and iron. Studies have shown that the regular addition of spinach to one’s diet can help improve eye health, promote heart health, boost immune function, and make bones stronger.
[Amazon Fresh]

Strawberries – Strawberries are a flavorful staple of many healthy smoothies and shakes. They are an excellent source of several important antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds including pelargonidin, ellagic acid, ellagitannins, and procyanidins. Strawberries are widely known to decrease the risk of heart disease, help regulate blood sugar, and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
[Amazon Fresh]

Almond Milk – Almond milk is a popular nut-based milk replacement that is naturally lactose-free, dairy-free, and completely vegan. It has a surprisingly diverse set of nutrients, including significant amounts of vitamin D, vitamin E, and calcium. Almond milk is also a heart-healthy beverage for those interested in lowering their cholesterol.
[Amazon Fresh]

Hemp Protein Powder – Hemp protein powder has an earthy, nutty taste and is made by grinding pressed hemp seeds into a powder. It contains all nine essential amino acids and is a high-quality planted-based protein source. Hemp protein powder is typically used by health-conscious body builders and by those trying to gain weight or increase muscle mass.
[Amazon Fresh]

Vanilla – Vanilla is one of the most popular flavoring agents in the world due to its calming aroma and pleasing taste. It is also rich in the phenolic plant compound vanillin. Vanilla has been shown to protect brain cells against oxidative stress and to reduce liver damage.
[Amazon Fresh]

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 Green Lactation smoothie is very easy to make:

• Step 1: Place coconut meat, dates, spinach, strawberries, almond milk, hemp protein powder, pure vanilla extract, and crushed 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.

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.

Coconut milk or soy milk can be substituted for the almond milk and still keep this delicious smoothie dairy-free.

USDA MyPlate: 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]