Shamrock Protein Shake

With Spring around the corner, the delicious vanilla and mint flavors of the iconic "Shamrock Shake" start to filter into many of our minds. Not wanting to miss out on this indulgence, the VTC kitchen decided to create our own health conscious version to be enjoyed at home.

While the real deal has a minimum of 63 grams of sugar (113 grams for a large!), our clean ingredient version has no added sugars, mystery ingredients or artificial colors, however is chocked full of nutritional superstars. This 5-minute recipe will quickly become a year round favorite for both adults and kids in your household!

ALMOND MILK: A low calorie, low sugar milk alternative, only one cup of almond milk can provide up to half of your daily vitamin E requirement. This powerful antioxidant can reduce inflammation , stress and heart disease. Many almond milks on the market are enriched with vitamin D and calcium, assisting with bone health and prevention of several diseases. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10].

PROTEIN POWDER: Protein is a critical nutrient for the proper functioning of many of our bodily functions. Getting a proper balance of protein can boost your metabolism, decrease hunger and appetite, prevent muscle loss and promote muscle growth. [11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17]

PEPPERMINT: This aromatic herb offers a strong punch of flavor as well as several health benefits. The natural compounds found in peppermint leaves can aid with improved digestion, improve concentration, as well as provide relief for allergy symptoms, headaches and clogged airways. [18, 19, 20, 21].

VANILLA: One of the most popular flavors utilized in baking and sweets, vanilla extract is more than just a delicious flavor. A good quality vanilla extract is a powerful scavenger of free radicals, working to rid our bodies of toxic components. Vanillin also has surprising mood enhancing effects, including mood boosting and anxiety calming benefits. [21, 22, 23].

CACAO NIBS: These small but mighty bits carry an impressive amount of nutrients. Being one of the least processed cocoa products available they are chocolate lovers dream, with minimal sugar and a bounty of health benefits. Cacao nibs are an excellent source of fiber, protein and healthy fats, all of which promote a feeling of fullness. Not to be sold short, they also are rich in minerals and flavonoid antioxidants. [24, 25, 26, 27, 28].

VTC C8 MCT OIL: A medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) is extracted from coconut and palm kernel. This super fat provides quick, stable energy to the brain and body, promotes healthy weight loss, boosts gut and immune health, as well as supports healthy cholesterol [29, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32]