If you’re reading this, then it’s probably safe to say you’re aware of some of the pitfalls and side effects of too much sugar (if you want more info I suggest starting here).

But just because we know we should probably cut down on the sweet stuff doesn’t make the struggle any less real. Sugar in all it’s various forms is addictive, enjoyable, comforting and literally rewards us with surge of pleasure-inducing endorphins that only leave us wanting more.

Before you get totally discouraged, I’m here to tell you there are so many fun and delicious ways to indulge in sweet, satisfying treats that include very little to no sugar. As a nutrition + healthy lifestyle coach, part of my job is helping clients figure out what exactly it is they like and crave about certain foods, then finding easy ways to optimize those foods — tweaking them to be more nutrient-dense and kinder on their bodies. Their food becomes more functional and serves a purpose besides just tasting good — it empowers them to FEEL good too.

Enter in this Creamy Chocolate Maca Fudge Smoothie — which was created for a client suffering from an under active thyroid, blood sugar imbalance and intense sugar cravings. Our primary focus in working together was to empower her to lose body fat, stabilize her hormones and find recipes to help her satisfy her sweet tooth without getting in the way of her goals.

This creamy, decadent smoothie was instrumental in helping her stay on track. Not only did it taste delicious (like a thick, nut buttery bowl of ice cream) but it contains a plethora of superfood ingredients known for balancing hormones and blood sugar levels.

These functional, feel-good ingredients include:

Maca powder — an adaptogen that restores hormone balance and elevates endorphin levels

Cacao + Cacao Nibs — a superfood rich in magnesium, flavonoids, and antioxidants that stimulates the brain to release feel good chemicals like phenylethylamine and anandamide

Flaxseed Powder — a fiber-filled seed rich in omega-3 healthy fats that provide your brain and body with long-lasting, sustainable energy and satiety– key for helping with blood sugar regulation and combatting cravings

Quality Collagen Protein Powder — This protein-packed powder can help to seal and heal the intestinal lining of your gastrointestinal tract — key for decreasing inflammation that can cause a plethora of symptoms from mood swings to weight-loss resistance

Avocado — The healthy fats and fiber in this nutrient-packed fruit help accelerate weight-loss by increasing satiety hormones that help you eat less overall

Cashew Butter — One of the most versatile and best tasting nuts that have been show to support cognitive function and mood regulation

Not only do all of these ingredients serve an important purpose, but they taste amazing when combined in this sweet, cold and creamy chocolate maca cashew butter treat. Swapping this smoothie for sugar-laden protein bars at breakfast or ice cream after dinner helped my client stay on track with her healthy eating goals, balance her energy and mood, curb her intense sugar cravings and lose 10 pounds to boot!

*Disclaimer — Every person is completely unique and what works for one person may not work as well for another. But if you do struggle with sugar cravings, headaches, energy crashes, moodiness or weight resistance, incorporating more adaptogens, superfoods, healthy fats and protein, fiber + antioxidant-rich foods like those found in this smoothie could be a good place to start.

Chocolate Maca Fudge Smoothie

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VG

This creamy, decadent smoothie tastes delicious (like ice cream!) and is abundant with superfood ingredients known for balancing hormones and blood sugar levels.

PREP TIME:	TOTAL TIME:
00:00 Mins	00:05 Mins

• Author: Lauren Chambers

• Servings: 1-2

• Recipe Type: Smoothie

• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened hemp, almond, coconut or other non-dairy milk
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower or zucchini
• 1/2 avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1/2 frozen banana (leave out if limiting sugar/fruit or have candida)
• 1 serving quality collagen protein powder
• 2 tbsp cacao powder
• 2 tbsp cacao nibs
• 1 tbsp flaxseed powder
• 1 tbsp cashew butter
• 1 tsp maca powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• Optional toppings: shredded coconut, cacao nibs, cashew butter, coconut yogurt or grain-free granola

Instructions

Toss all ingredients in a high speed blender and blend until smooth

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