If you are after a protein smoothie, but you don’t like protein powders, then you have to try this healthy protein smoothie (No protein powder)!
The majority of protein smoothies unfortunately for some, have protein powder in them. However, thankfully there are natural healthier ways of adding protein to your smoothies without the need for protein powder.
Also, this protein smoothie doesn’t have any bananas either.
If you want a dose of protein but don’t like bananas or protein, this smoothie is perfect for you.
Do You Really Need Protein Powder In Smoothies?
The short answer is no. Protein powders have a high amount of protein, and of course, are super convenient, you only need 1-2 scoops.
However, there are other, more natural, and healthier ways of getting your protein.
Many protein powder brands contain heavy metals, and many other additives and toxic elements.
There are clean protein powders, of course, but protein powders are considered highly processed food.
Getting your protein from natural sources is the best thing you can do for your health.
Reasons To Replace Protein Powders In Smoothies And Shakes
There are several reasons why a person may choose to replace protein powders. Aside from natural sources being healthier and cleaner, there are other reasons.
Here are some of the reasons:
- Dietary Restrictions: People with dietary restrictions or allergies may need to find substitutions for protein powder. Those with lactose intolerance or allergies will need to avoid whey or casein protein powders, which are derived from milk.
- Vegan or Plant-Based Diet: Those following a vegan or plant-based diet need alternatives to animal-based protein powders. There are plant-based alternatives, but fresher sources are often preferable.
- Whole Food Approach: Some people prefer a whole food approach to nutrition and, therefore avoid processed protein powders. Instead, they favor whole food sources of protein, such as Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or legumes.
- Cost Considerations: Protein powders can be relatively expensive. Those on a tight budget may find it more cost-effective to use whole foods as protein sources in their smoothies.
- Taste and Texture: Protein powders often have a chalky or gritty texture. Using whole food sources of protein can result in a more enjoyable texture and natural taste.
How Can I Get Protein In My Smoothie Without Protein Powder?
What can I use if I have no protein powder?
There are so many ingredients you can use that naturally contain protein, and are also good for you.
These include:
- Nut Butters
- Seeds (e.g. chia seeds, linseeds, hemp seeds)
- Yogurt
- Dark Chocolate
- Oats
- Spinach
- Dates
- Legumes
- Tofu
And the list goes on. All of these ingredients work well in smoothies too.
One of my personal favorites is cooked beans. It may sound like a strange thing to add to your smoothies, but beans add so many nutrients and of course, protein.
Beans also help thicken smoothies too. So, if you haven’t used cooked beans in your smoothies before, maybe it’s time that you try it!
Healthy Protein Smoothie No Protein Powder Recipe Benefits
- Natural Nutrients: Using whole food sources in your protein smoothie provides a natural and unprocessed way to add essential nutrients to your diet.
- Customizable: Making a protein smoothie without powder allows you to tailor ingredients to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Cost-Effective: Whole foods are often more budget-friendly compared to expensive protein powder supplements.
- No Additives: Avoiding protein powder means avoiding potential additives, fillers, and artificial ingredients.
- Fiber Boost: Whole food sources of protein often come with added fiber, enhancing digestive health.
- Fresh Flavor: Whole foods create a fresh and vibrant flavor profile for smoothies. This makes them taste better.
How To Make Almond Butter Protein Shake Without Protein Powder
You will need:
- Apple
- Almond Butter
- Oats
- Shelled Hemp Seeds
- Cacao Powder
- Almond Milk
- Dates
This protein smoothie without protein powder comes out thick and so tasty. You can, of course, add more sweetness to it, like a touch of maple or date syrup.
To make this protein smoothie without protein powder – add all the ingredients to a blender, and blitz!
Serve and enjoy!
Optional Substitutes You Can Make To This Healthy Protein Smoothie
There are many variations of this smoothie recipe.
You can change some of the ingredients, which will help you customize this drink to suit your preferences.
Also, you may not have some of the ingredients needed for this specific smoothie recipe, so there are ways of still making it, with the ingredients you have.
Here are some of the options:
- For an even higher protein smoothie, you can add silken tofu as an addition to the required ingredients.
- Instead of hemp seeds, you can use chia seeds or flaxseeds, which are more widely used in smoothies.
- Instead of apples, you can use frozen mango, pineapple, and even avocado, for a more tropical-tasting smoothie.
- If you don’t like chocolate, simply do not add cocoa powder, instead, you can either add more oats or add instant coffee.
- The almond butter can easily be replaced with any other nut butter you have or like. Examples include cashews and peanut butter.
More Healthy Protein Smoothies & Shakes Recipes
- Vegan Protein Shake (No Protein Powder).
- Pea Smoothie With Pea Protein.
- No Fruit Smoothie (High protein).
Healthy Protein Smoothie (No Protein Powder)
Equipment
- 1 Blender We used Ninja
Ingredients
- 1 small soft apple cored and diced
- 2 dates pitted
- 1 cup/250ml of almond milk or other milk of choice
- 2 tbsp of almond butter Or peanut butter
- 1 tbsp of shelled hemp seeds or chia seeds
- 1 tbsp of cacao powder or cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp of oats
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients as described.
- Add all the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend everything until completely smooth.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs:
How can I thicken my smoothie without protein powder?
There are many ways to thicken a smoothie without protein powders. Bananas, avocados, yogurt and chia seeds are all great healthy options.
Are smoothies without protein powder healthy?
Yes, in fact smoothies made without protein powder can be healthier than ones made with powder. Protein powders are heavily processed products, some even contain harmful compounds such as heavy metals.
Is It OK Not To Take Protein Powder?
Protein powder can be a good addition to your diet if you need extra protein, however, it is not necessary to be healthy. Whole, and protein-rich foods with extra vitamins and minerals should be enough to sustain your health.
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