Calm & Chic

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Bone Broth Smoothies: Collagen, Protein, & Low-Carb Goodness

2018 is the year of stocks and bone broths.  Heralded as the solve-all for brittle hair/nails, weak immune systems and your average-American nutrient deficiencies, this soup base is the big buzz.  I’ve tried to jump on the bandwagon—mostly because the long list of benefits is hard to ignore (collagen, paleo-friendly, gelatin, glucosamine, chondroitin, etc.) but my attempts have been feeble at best.

Homemade bone broths take time—and a lot of it.  With my 8 to 5, I’ve got better things to do than letting things simmer for hours.

In truth, I was pretty content with my occasional dabble in organically boxed broths (blush) until two weeks ago my energetic zumba teacher, Jules, pushed a fresh blender bottle into my hand with a simple command “drink this.”

Like the good zumba student I am, I timidly took a sip.

It was actually pretty good--like really good. In fact, if (in some backwards universe) Arby’s Jamocha shakes were healthy-this (soon-to-be-described bone broth smoothie) would be it’s cousin. It’s super healthy, fit cousin.

 It’s chocolatey delicious in all the right ways.

Fifteen days later and I’m religiously drinking this bone protein for breakfast.  I put a bit of a spin on the recipe Jules shared with me (replacing almond milk for Raw Milk and adding a touch of bentonite clay and a dab of cinnamon) and even the hubby has put aside his typical green smoothie for some sips (that’s a win in the wifey-department).

Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Protein Powder: 1 scoop is the equivalent of 1.5 cups of bone broth. It also has 20 grams of protein but only 2 carbs (making it a breakfast that even Tim Ferriss would salute). If you are like me (breakfast, brunch and lunch kind-of-girl) then this will be a heaven-sent because it’s one of the few breakfasts that doesn’t have me checking my watch come 10:30am waiting for lunch to arrive.
 

Ancient Nutrition makes organic and antibiotic-free bone broth from certified free-range chickens. The company dehydrates the broth until it becomes a concentrated soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free powder. It’s even binder and filler free. I also appreciate that a single scoop is fairly low in calories compared to other proteins I’ve tried (I’m looking at you Whey). The low cal aspect is great because I feel like I can load up on the rest of my breakfast calories with healthy fats.

 

When it comes to smoothie add-ins, sometimes I'll toss in a raw egg from my local free-range/organic chicken coop.  It makes it extra creamy. Yum. 

XOXO,

Lemon

Good for You -  I love that this protein powder is (PCR Tested) Non GMO and dairy free. The broth is made from free-range chickens and the greens are from organic alfalfa grass juice and organic oat grass juice. I typically use the chocolate and the greens.  If you're a stickler for straight broth I'd opt for the "Pure" or "Greens" flavors.  I personally love the "Chocolate" flavor which does have a few more ingredients (like cocoa powder, xanthan gum, guar gum, and stevia.)

Good for Others - Neutral

Good for Earth - Neutral. 

C&C Overall - Bone Broth Protein has become my work-kitchen staple. It's just so easy to make and doesn't take up too much space in my office's shared fridge.  It is a bit pricey as far as protein powders go, but I think it's worth it considering the fact that I get a 3-for-1 smoothie: Type II collagen, 20 grams of organic proteins & lots of amino acids.  Oh, but I do wish Ancient Nutrition would invest in some eco-freindly packaging/programs.