FOOD FRIDAY!
One of the best ways I feel I can share how to eat a whole foods plant-based diet is by showcasing the method behind the madness of my own meal prep. Summer is a great time of year as far as the bounty that we can eat, however it is also a time when my hunger is down. Scientifically we are programmed to eat less. Breaking down food is heat producing. Our body wants to elminate the extra heat and thus, hunger is down.
So how do I compose my meals? This is what I always look at:
*Protein: Today I used Orgain at 21g. I prefer rice or pea protein straight up. This protein is unsweetened and has 8g of protein per tablespoon. I can add more protein with fewer calories. ANOTHER add: peanut butter powder at 7g per 2 tablespoons and only 80 calories. Once could also do a mash up on any of the aforementioned.
*Complex carbs: Peas and kale were used today. Have you ever had cauliflower or zucchini in your bowl or smoothie? They add mega nutrients and have a neutral flavor. These are all great adds to bulk up volume and nutrients.
*Fiber: All of the fruit and veggies fill that void. I also had a piece of avocado toast that had 5g of protein and tons of fiber. Coconut also has fiber.
*Fat: Healthy fats help give your body energy, protect your organs, support cell growth, and keep cholesterol and blood pressure under control. Avocados are one the best fats. Olives, nuts, and seeds are other examples.
VEGAN POWER BOWL SMOOTHIE
*frozen fruits of choice
*frozen peas, kale or fresh or the latter.
*protein powder
*non-dairy milk or yogurt/water (just enough to blend)
*acai packet
*toppings: fresh fruit, nuts/seeds (hemp), coconut, what else?
*options: any protein powder, fruits, veggies of choice, spices (cinnamon)
Blend all but the topping in a blender of food processor. You want it thick, so just add milk until it becomes creamy. Top with all the goodness you desire. I served mine with avocado toast to make this meal 35g of protein. I would have added 16 more grams if I had any of my plain protein powder on hand. I did have another piece of toast, though, so that brought my total to 43g!!! Not bad for one meal.
Enjoy and make this your own!
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