To celebrate the classic combo of mint and chocolate, we blended together Lifeway Kefir with some of nature’s finest chocolate ingredients, real mint, and a few other goodies before topping it off with real chocolate, whipped cream, and mint leaves. True to that coveted mint chocolate flavor, this blend is a healthy swap that doesn’t sacrifice taste and will help you celebrate a shamrock-inspired dessert any day you choose.
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.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Lowfat Chocolate Kefir
- 2 cups frozen bananas (about 1 and 1/2 bananas, frozen)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 avocado, pitted and peeled
- large handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1 scoop collagen peptides or vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 tbsp. cacao nibs or unsweetened chocolate chips
- *Optional Toppings: Unsweetened whipped cream or whipped coconut cream, additional cacao nibs or chocolate chips, mint leaves
Directions
- Place all ingredients (except toppings) into blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add toppings and enjoy!
