Collagen Power Smoothie

Looking for a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your body and mind? Search no more! Our Collagen Power Smoothie recipe is packed with brain-boosting and health-enhancing ingredients that not only taste great, but also provide a wealth of benefits for your overall well-being. This delightful concoction features a unique blend of fruits, proteins, and essential nutrients to keep your body energized and your mind sharp.

Blueberries
Blueberries are widely regarded as a superfood due to their high antioxidant content, which helps protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation [1]. They are also rich in flavonoids, which have been linked to improved memory, cognitive function, and reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline [2].

Banana
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and balance fluids in the body [3]. Additionally, they contain tryptophan, which is converted to serotonin in the brain, contributing to mood regulation and overall brain health [4].

Almond Butter
Almond butter provides a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to support heart health and lower LDL cholesterol levels [5]. It is also a good source of vitamin E, which helps protect the brain from oxidative damage and promotes cognitive function [6].

Medjool Dates
Dates are a natural sweetener and energy booster, thanks to their high fiber and natural sugar content. They also contain brain-boosting nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and copper [7].

Greek Yogurt / Unsweetened Almond Milk
Greek yogurt is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics, which contribute to healthy digestion and immune function [8]. The non-dairy alternative, unsweetened almond milk, provides a similar texture and creaminess while offering additional vitamins and minerals.

Smart Collagen
Collagen supplementation has been associated with improvements in skin health, joint function, and overall wellbeing [9]. Smart Collagen is a convenient way to incorporate this essential protein into your diet, while also providing a a number of other brain, health and gut microbiome benefits, with its unique brain health blend and prebiotic fiber.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 1 cup (150g) blueberries (frozen)
• 1 cup (150g) banana, sliced (or frozen slices)
• 2 tbsp. almond butter
• 2 medjool dates
• ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• Non-Dairy Alternative: replace the greek yogurt and water with 2 cups (480ml) almond milk, unsweetened
• 2 scoops (50g) Smart Collagen (French Vanilla)

If more carbohydrates are required, add 2 tbsp. raw oats, pre-cooked and cooled.

Instructions

Place all the ingredients into a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Serve straight away and enjoy the myriad health and brain benefits of this delectable Collagen Power Smoothie!

References
[1] Kalt, W., Cassidy, A., Howard, L.R., Krikorian, R., Stull, A.J., Tremblay, F., & Zamora-Ros, R. (2020). Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins. Advances in Nutrition, 11(2), 224-236.
[2] Spencer, J.P.E. (2009). Flavonoids and brain health: multiple effects underpinned by common mechanisms. Genes & Nutrition, 4(4), 243-250.
[3] Aburto, N.J., Hanson, S., Gutierrez, H., Hooper, L., Elliott, P., & Cappuccio, F.P. (2013). Effect of increased potassium intake on cardiovascular risk factors and disease: systematic review and meta-analyses. BMJ, 346, f1378.
[4] Jenkins, T.A., Nguyen, J.C.D., Polglaze, K.E., & Bertrand, P.P. (2016). Influence of Tryptophan and Serotonin on Mood: with Particular Reference to L-Tryptophan. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 41(6), 394-405.
[5] Sabaté, J., Oda, K., & Ros, E. (2010). Nut consumption and blood lipid levels: a pooled analysis of 25 intervention trials. Archives of Internal Medicine, 170(9), 821-827.
[6] Morris, M.C., Evans, D.A., Bienias, J.L., Tangney, C.C., Wilson, R.S. (2002). Vitamin E and cognitive decline in older persons. Archives of Neurology, 59(7), 1125-1132.
[7] Al-Farsi, M.A., & Lee, C.Y. (2008). Nutritional and functional properties of dates: a review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 48(10), 877-887.
[8] Adolfsson, O., Meydani, S.N., & Russell, R.M. (2004). Yogurt and gut function. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 80(2), 245-256.
[9] Bolke, L., Schlippe, G., Gerß, J., & Voss, W. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), 2494.