Breakfast Smoothie with Almond Butter

Are you looking to get a bit more energy out of your breakfast smoothie? Then try adding almond butter (or any other nut/seed butter).  Almonds are a good source of healthy unsaturated fat, have about 2 grams of protein per tablespoon, as well as some vitamin B1 and folate.   Adding almond butter will not only help thicken your smoothie, but will give you longer lasting energy, and you will feel full, longer.  Easy does it though, 1 tbsp packs about 100 calories and 9g of fat.  Due to the extra fat content, I recommend waiting at least 2 hours before exercising to ensure the smoothie has digested fully.

Smoothie Recipe:

• 3/4 cup- 1 1/4 cup water depending on desired consistency
• 1 scoop protein powder (or 1/2 cup plain yogurt).
• 1 cup berries of your choice
• 1 tbsp chia seeds or ground flax seeds
• 1 tbsp almond butter (or other nut/seed butter of choice)
• 1/4 cup oats or oat bran or muesli cereal (optional)
• 1 scoop greens powder or fresh greens (optional)
• 1/2 banana (optional)

Put all ingredients in a blender and mix together.  If you like your smoothie a little thicker then let the smoothie sit for 10 minutes after blending and the chia seeds will bulk things up.  If you are looking for some extra calories you can sub in milk or juice for water.  If you are using fresh berries, then couple ice cubes will ensure smoothie is a cooler temperature.