Luscious and velvety, this Cocoa Nutty Smoothie bowl might taste like a sin but it’ll make you feel like a saint! Cover in your favorite toppings, like cocoa nibs, coconut flakes, and a drizzle of almond butter.
We used Lifeway Vanilla Organic Whole Milk Kefir in this recipe which contains live cultures that support your gut and immune system. It’s also a good source of protein and filled with calcium and vitamin D for bone health and skeletal support.
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates (fiber) naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually doesn’t digest prebiotics. Instead, prebiotics are what probiotics feed off of to remain active in the digestive tract. Probiotics feed off prebiotic fibers for fuel, and the two work in your digestive system to keep your microbiome happy. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including your immune system and digestive system.
Servings: 1
Ingredients
- 1 cup Vanilla Whole Milk Kefir
- 1 banana, frozen
- 2 tablespoons raw cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 date, pitted
- Pinch sea salt
- Banana slices, almond butter, coconut flakes, and cocoa nibs for garnish
Directions
- Add kefir, banana, cocoa powder, almond butter, date, and sea salt to the pitcher of a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth.
- Garnish with banana slices, almond butter drizzle, cocoa nibs, coconut flakes
