We’re taking one of our favorite street snacks and converting it into a decadent probiotic smoothie. Our Chocolate Churro Smoothie has that signature chocolate cinnamon flavor you love but without the fried food, and instead, our chocolate smoothie boasts a list of better-for-you ingredients, like our Chocolate Lifeway Kefir! Lifeway Kefir loads this drink with probiotics, which are fueled by the hidden veggies we included! Yes, that’s right. You can now have your veggies and chocolate smoothie at the same time. The veggies also contain prebiotic fiber to help the good bacteria in the kefir and your digestive tract thrive, while the PB2 peanut butter powder we include adds fiber and protein without all the fats in regular peanut butter. It’s a wonderful combination!
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually 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 naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. 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 both your immune system and digestive system.
Prep Time: 10 mins Servings: 2Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup frozen zucchini (about 1 zucchini, chopped and frozen)
- a handful of spinach
- 2 tbsp. rolled oats
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground flax
- 1 tbsp. PB2 Peanut Butter powder (you can find this in the aisle with the peanut butter as a lower fat alternative to regular peanut butter that's higher in protein)
- 1 tbsp. raw cacao powder (or unsweetened cocoa powder)
- 1 large Medjool date or 1 tbsp. date paste
- 1 serving chocolate sauce of choice (we love a low sugar option!)
- 2 cups Chocolate Lowfat Kefir
- Toppings: Churros, Chocolate or regular whipped cream, Cinnamon
Directions
- In a high speed blender, add in all ingredients except the toppings.
- Add do your favorite cup and top with Churros, whipped cream, and cinnamon.