Breakfast Smoothie

Since starting my most recent job at a gym, I wake up really, really, really early. Breakfast is by far my favorite meal of the day, and I've always been the type of person who will get up an hour early just to have the time to sit, read the news, and enjoy breakfast. However, getting up at 3:45am would be a little crazy. So I've started making smoothies in the morning, which is great if you're pressed for time, or if you're the type of person who struggles with wanting to eat a big breakfast. As I've mentioned before, its SO crucial to get an adequate amount of protein (at least 20 grams) and good fat in the morning, as it will stimulate your metabolism and keep your blood sugar stabilized throughout the day.

One thing people have a hard time digesting (ha! get it? PUNny). I digress...is raw eggs in smoothies. This seems like some strange/unhealthy habit done only by body builders. But, I promise you, if you are buying organic, free range (preferably local from a farm) eggs, you are both not in danger, but you are providing your body with an excellent fuel source full of nutrients, protein, and fat. Its very important to not eat egg whites raw without the yolk, because this can lead to a B Vitamin deficiency. Check out this article from Dr. Mercola for more great information: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2002/11/13/eggs-part-two.aspx

So, here is a smoothie idea! Of course, as with all recipes, feel free to experiment/improvise!

1 serving cold pressed, organic whey protein (Natural Factors is a good brand)
1-2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/2-1 cup coconut water (try raw milk or whole coconut milk instead)
2 organic eggs
1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
1 handful of berries (or other fresh fruit, berries are lower in sugar)
Dark, leafy greens that you have around (I generally add kale, and you don't taste it at all, but its a great boost of nutrients)

This is a good morning/breakfast smoothie, but can also be a great post-workout meal (30 minutes post exercise, as our body shuts down digestion during intense workouts).

ENJOY!