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, and if you’re dairy-free, Lifeway Oat makes a great alternative in any flavor you choose! Lifeway Oat is organic, gluten-free, and 100% dairy-free and vegan and contains live, active dairy-free cultures while Lifeway Organic Whole Milk Kefir contains live cultures derived from dairy. Whichever you choose, know you’re getting a dose of gut-healthy probiotics no matter what your dietary choices are! We support you and hope you enjoy this recipe!
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 Healthier You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of fiber-rich plant 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 and digestive systems.
Servings: 1
Ingredients
- 1 cup Vanilla Whole Milk Kefir
- **Or, if vegan, sub any flavor of Lifeway Oat, such as Strawberry Oat
- 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
