Recipe (Ingredients)

2/3 cup organic reduced fat milk: The milk we use and recommend is made by Straus Family Creamery. This dairy uses organic milk produced by range and organic fed cows not treated with antibiotics or growth hormone. Additionally, Straus does not homogenize their milk so the cream rises to the top, nor do they add fillers or dry milk powders. Also, they use low-temperature pasteurization; thereby, preserving the natural proteins and immunoglobulins found in milk but at the same time eliminating any potentially dangerous organisms. This milk comes in a glass bottle.

2/3 cup organic whole plan yogurt:Another quality dairy product by Straus Family Creamery. This yogurt is unsweetened and is produced from organic dairy free of antibiotics or growth hormone. Yogurt provides quality proteins as well as friendly gut bacteria necessary for the health of the gastrointestinal system.

2/3 cup organic light coconut milk:This product is manufactured by Native Forest and is unsweetened. It has 68% less fat than whole coconut milk and for those concerned about fat calories, this makes for an excellent choice. Although low in fat, most of the fat consists of medium chain fatty acids including lauric acid. Medium chain fatty acids are not stored in fat cells; therefore, they provide an immediate source of energy. Lauric acid is converted into monolaurin, a potent anti-microbial and immune system supporting fat. Although this product comes in a can, Native Forest does not use can epoxy liners that leach bisphenol-A (BPA).

1 tbsp organic flaxseed oil: A cold pressed flaxseed oil void of harmful chemicals typically used in oil processing. This particular brand is made by Trader Darwin's and can be found in most Trader Joe's markets. Flaxseed oil yields an essential omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This fat is essential because it cannot be manufactured inside the body and must be obtained from our diet. ALA is used in the synthesis of other omega-3 fats such as EPA and DHA, both very important fats found in cell membranes that provide protection against inflammation, heart health and other vital immune system functions.

1 scoop whey protein concentrate: The brand recommended is Whey Factors manufactured by Natural Factors, a Canadian company providing natural products of high quality for over 50-years. Whey Factors is 100% natural, unflavored and unsweetened, and void of dangerous antibiotics and growth hormone. One scoop yields approximately 16 grams of high quality protein with all the essential amino acids necessary for tissue repair and growth, as well as immunoglobulins and other nutrients necessary for immune system support. An excellent source of protein for those trying to lose body fat, gain lean muscle or improve their overall health and wellbeing. An important source of natural protein for young and old, or those suffering from chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and those undergoing cancer therapy.

1 scoop PureLean™ fiber:This fiber is manufactured by Pure Encapsulations, a company known for its pharmaceutical grade supplements of the highest quality and potency. Each serving yields 6 grams of combined soluble and insoluble fiber, including guar gum, glucomannan, apple pectin, prune fiber, rice bran, cellulose and flaxseed. This unique blend helps slow the rate of digestion, promoting satiety, digestive health, nutrient absorption and healthy glycemic control. It enhances satiety by absorbing water and adding bulk in the digestive tract enhancing GI motility and regularity. The high molecular weight and viscosity of glucomannan is supportive for healthy lipid metabolism and promotes healthy glycemic control and body weight. Adding one scoop of PureLean to your morning shake is an excellent way of maintaining gastrointestinal health and immune system support

1 scoop organic freeze-dried acai berry powder:This product is both organic and freeze-dried. Acai is a natural berry with the highest ORAC value antioxidant and phytonutrient content of any fruit or berry. This amazing fruit is loaded with nutritional value that can only be fully captured via freeze drying immediately after harvesting. Acai berry that is freeze-dried is a much better choice than liquid acid berry, because liquids tend to oxidize rapidly losing their overall nutritional potency. Adding one scoop of this berry fortifies the overall antioxidant and polyphenol potency of this high nutritious shake.

1-3 tsp organic unsweetened cocoa powder: This cocoa powder is manufactured by Now Foods, and is alkaline-free and unsweetened, and void of additives or fillers. A real "super food" loaded with high ORAC value antioxidants and polyphenols, with each serving providing 22 to 108 mg of flavonoids. Cocoa powder is a rich source of protein and fiber and is naturally low in usable carbohydrates, and full of chocolate flavor. Adding 1 tbsp (3 tsp) to this shake does not make it a chocolate shake per say; rather it provides super antioxidant potency. Adding more than 1 tbsp will give you a rich chocolate flavor.

1/2 tsp buffered ascorbic acid: Pure ascorbic acid is a highly potent antioxidant, and in powdered form mixes well in most liquids including shakes. This form of vitamin C has been buffered by adding calcium, magnesium and potassium, making this a good choice for those sensitive to pure ascorbic acid. Vitamin C has numerous roles in the human body as an antioxidant and free-radical scavenger, and is vital for cellular and vascular health. Each 1/2 tsp serving yields 1124 mg of buffered ascorbic acid.

1 tsp organic ground cinnamon spice: Cinnamonis among the highest in ORAC value of any spice. Aside from its exceptional antioxidant and phytonutrient potency, cinnamon helps regulate sugar metabolism and is beneficial for those suffering from glucose intolerance, insulin resistance or diabetes. Adding 1 tsp of cinnamon to your shake provides additional protection against cell oxidation damage from harmful "free radicals."

1/4 tsp organic ground clove spine:Clove has the highest ORAC value of any known spice, making it a true super food. It's also been shown to decrease LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as improve insulin function. Adding 1/4 tsp of ground clove adds superior antioxidant and phytonutrient potency to an already powerful shake.

1 tsp xylitol: A natural sugar-alcohol manufactured by Now Foods. Xylitol is derived from non-genetically modified corn, and is used as a natural sweetener. It has half the calories as regular table sugar, but is much lower in glycemic index rating. In fact, xylitol is rated 7 out of 100, and table sugar is (high-glycemic) is rated 70. Because of its low-glycemic rating, it does not increase blood sugar or insulin levels. Xylitol cannot be fermented by bacteria and yeast; therefore, it does not promote tooth decay, ear or throat infections as regular sugar tends to do. It is safe for overweight or obese individuals as well as those suffering from insulin resistance and diabetes.

1/3 frozen banana: Bananas are a rich source of potassium, choline and phytosterols. Keeping bananas frozen preserves their nutritional value and natural flavor. Since bananas are protected by their peel, it is not absolutely essential that they are organic.

1 cup organic frozen mixed berries:The berries you chose is up to your personal preference. However, these are the berries that I recommend because of their exceptional antioxidant and phytonutrient value: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Since berries do not have a protective covering or skin, they are more likely to absorb pesticide and herbicide chemicals from spraying; therefore, buying organic is strongly recommended. Also, use frozen instead of fresh, because freezing preserves their nutritional value and natural flavors.