Red Berry Beet Smoothie



 

Ingredients

  • 3 oz beet juice
  • 3-5 oz coconut water
  • ½ cup fresh or frozen spinach
  • ⅓ cup frozen strawberries
  • ⅓ cup frozen raspberries
  • ½ frozen banana
  • 1 scoop unflavored whey protein powder 
  

Nutrition

  • Amount: About 16 oz
  • Calories: 240
  • Fat (g): 1
  • Sat. Fat (g): 0
  • Carb (g): 38
  • Fiber (g): 8
  • Protein (g): 20

More

Directions

  • Combine all ingredients in order listed and blend until smooth.
  • Add more coconut water for a thinner consistency, add less for a thicker smoothie.
  • If using fresh (not frozen) fruit, add a few ice cubes to keep it cool and refreshing for post-workout consumption.

 

Cooking Tip

If you would like a calcium-rich, whole food smoothie, replace the protein powder with ¾ - 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt. 

 

Performance Fact

Beets are high in dietary nitrates, which can improve athletic performance by increasing blood flow to muscles, allowing for increased muscle efficiency during high intensity exercise, and speeding up cognitive function. Coconut water and bananas are good sources of potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain proper nerve and muscle function. This recovery smoothie is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress from high intensity training and other environmental stressors.