Layered Rainbow Energy Smoothie

I'm going to keep this one short and sweet today because I'm busy praying for Russell Wilson to get it together so I can win my fantasy football matchup this week!!! (SMH)  

This layered smoothie might change your life. FA REAL.  It's packed full of protein, healthy fats, and crazy potent energy boosting amazingness. Yes that is a word;  I use it all the time, mmmk? Also this pic didn't quiiiiiite meet the Whole Nikole standards, but I had to post it anyway because the smoothie was SO DANG GOOD.  

Let's talk about how this jar of awesome will keep you going all morning with sustained energy that won't cause an afternoon crash.

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Energy Boosters

• Spirulina: Considered one of nature's richest and most complete source of total nutrition, spirulina contains over 100 synergistic nutrients. It is specifically rich in B vitamins, which may explain its ability to provide sustained energy after consumption. In addition to boosting your energy, spirulina is also an extremely potent source of antioxidants, a complete source of plant protein, and a powerful detoxifier and immune booster.  It pretty much kicks ass in the health department.
• Bee Pollen: The range of nutrients found in bee pollen makes it a potent natural energizer. Did you know that bee pollen contains almost all of the nutrients required by the human body to thrive?  Say whaaat???  That’s why the German Federal Board of Health has officially recognized it as a medicine. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, lipids and fatty acids, enzymes, carotenoids and bioflavonoids. This makes it an antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral booster food that strengthens the capillaries, reduces inflammation, stimulates the immune system and lowers cholesterol levels naturally.  BOOM.
• Cacao Nibs: These little superstars can stimulate your brain and boost your mood by telling your brain to release specific neurotransmitters and endorphins.  This in turn gives us a sense of alertness (see: focus!) and contentment.  Cacao nibs contain the highest concentration of flavonoid antioxidants of any food in the world, help control blood sugar and blood pressure, and are totally YUM.
• Coconut Yogurt: About 60% of the fatty acids in coconut cream are medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). MCFAs are rapidly metabolized into energy by the liver, so they supply your bod with a quick energy source. BONUS ALERT!!  The MCFAs found in coconut cream/milk increase your body's energy expenditure and tell your body to go into fat-burning mode.
• Other Stuff: The remaining ingredients in this layered smoothie are nutrient and protein dense, giving your body the essentials it needs to stay energized, keep your blood sugar balanced, and keep your brain sharp through the day.

You ready to make this baby or what?

Recipe:
Layered Rainbow Energy Smoothie (makes 2 large or 3 smaller servings)

​Bottom Layer:

• 1 and 1/2 small containers Coyo Mixed Berry Coconut Yogurt​

Middle Layer:

• Remaining 1/2 small container Coyo Mixed Berry Coconut Yogurt
• 3/4 cup vanilla nut milk of choice (unsweetened)
• 1 banana, frozen
• 1 Cup frozen pineapple
• 1 tsp Spirulina

Top Layer

• 3/4 Cup vanilla nut milk of choice (unsweetened)
• 2 Tbsp raw almond butter
• 3 scoops protein powder of choice (shoot for ~30-35 grams protein)
• 1 Cup frozen strawberries

Toppings:

• Frozen blackberries (or blueberries would be delish as well!)
• 1 Tbsp PER SERVING raw cacao nibs (I like Navitas Naturals)
• 1 tsp PER SERVING bee pollen
• Shredded coconut, to taste

How-To
Start by adding the coconut yogurt to the your container to make the bottom layer, and then put your container in the freezer.  Next blend together your middle layer ingredients and gently add on top of the yogurt.  Put the two layers back in the freezer. (Keeping your smoothie in the freezer between layers helps the layers stay thick so they don't all mix together right away.  I mean, you want this to be pretty, right???)  Repeat with the top layer ingredients, add your toppings, and EAT UP.  Then let me know what you think! 

X's and O's,
Nikole