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For the past month or two now I've taken on the challenge of starting to exercise. Healthy eating has been a part of my life for a good long while now, but I've never really been one to actually 'exercise'. I think the last time that I actually didn't anything with fitness was well before I had my little girl. That was over 5 years ago!
I've been 'hitting the gym' 3-4 days a week, doing everything from the treadmill, to tabata, cardio, pilates, barre, yoga and back again. I thought that starting in with a fitness routine would be hard, but I guess I was just mentally ready for it since I became addicted pretty much instantly. I haven't given myself a chance to quit or find an excuse not to go.
In fact, I've found myself considering it as 'part of my job duties'. It's a must do to complete my weekly tasks sort of thing. I feel so much better. Even after the first initial week of exercise I felt lighter, healthy, and more grounded.
With exercise I've found myself eating a bit more, but I've been sure to eat my usual better-for-you things. One of my go-to snacks and/or meals has become this cold brew coffee protein shake which keeps me full and satisfied while giving me that added pick-me-up so I can take on my day knowing I've taken care of myself already!
I left this protein shake gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of the good stuff. I decided to go with a brand of protein that I'm familiar with; Vega Essentials. It's made from real, whole food ingredients that I feel good about and it gives me the nutrition that I want and need for my more active lifestyle.
I was initially a bit worried that without the addition of sugar that this shake would be bitter with the coffee, but was perfect just the way it was and tastes great. As you can see, I added a touch of cinnamon on the top to make it feel extra fancy.
My shake here is dairy-free, but feel free to use any sort of milk or non-milk product that you are most comfortable with or enjoy most; just be sure to adjust the nutritial count accordingly. Water works too if you're wanting to shave off even more calories!
Skinny Cold Brew Coffee Protein Shake
TheSkinnyFork.com
The Skinny:
Servings: 1 • Size: 1 Shake • Calories: 162.5 • Fat: 4.5 g • Carb: 12 g • Fiber: 1 g • Protein: 17 g • Sugar: 8 g • Sodium: 150 mg
Ingredients:
1 C. Unsweetened Almond Milk
1/2 C. Cold Brew Black Coffee Concentrate
1/2 C. Ice Cubes
1 Level Scoop Vega Essentials (Vanilla)
Directions:
Toss all the ingredients together into a blender, immersion blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy to your liking.
I was able to find Vega Essentials in my local Target along with everything else I needed.
As a side note, for this recipe you can always use a cup of brewed strong black coffee that's been cooled in the fridge. I prefer the concentrate for the added boost of caffeine and rich coffee flavor.
While you're at Target, make use of the coupon above to get your $5 off your Vega Essentials!
Enjoy right away!
I've shared my favorite 'pick me up' shake. I'd love to hear what your favorite is!
