7 Healthy Nutritious Ways to Shake Up Your Protein Drink

One of the most popular way to build lean muscle is by consuming some type of protein shake one to three times per day in between meals.  Protein shakes are fast and easy convenient pre-or-post workout meal replacements.  That one glass provides vitamins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and protein. However the problem is that a lot of people just can’t get past the chalky taste.

Try these 7 tasty ingredients to spice up for a tasty healthy drink:

Ground oatmeal - Adding oatmeal to your shake increases the fiber content and makes the shake more filling.  Oatmeal increases the carbohydrates content of your protein shake, which is the primary source of energy for your body.  Adding ¼ cup of ground oatmeal to a protein shake provides an additional 14 grams of carbohydrates.

Cinnamon -   Cinnamon is an easy way to spice up your post workout.  It compliments flavors such as vanilla and chocolate.  It’s also known to help you lose weight because it has the ability to reduce your blood sugar levels.  Just add a dash (1/4 tablespoon) to your next shake.

Yogurt - Yogurt masks the chalky taste that accompanies many whey and soy protein powders.  For best results use a non-fat or low-fat yogurt to decrease the thick consistency. Use flavored yogurt or yogurt that comes with a fruit mix.  It’s also high in protein and “good” bacteria which supports the immune system. 1 cup of yogurt per each serving of protein powder.

Cocoa powder - Dark chocolate may reduce cardiovascular disease.   It also contains essential minerals that support your heart, bones and immune system.  Don’t be afraid to use a little extra as its low in calories.

Applesauce - Applesauce provides a balanced miniature meal rich in protein, carbohydrates and healthy fat.  It contains no fat. The sugar found in unsweetened varieties come from naturally occurring fructose.

Fruit juice - You can mix almost any juice with protein powder.  Look for a 100 percent fruit or vegetable juice.  Liquid juice or frozen juice concentrated can be used.  Although frozen fruits makes the best consistency for a protein powder drink.  Most popular juice choice is orange, which is loaded with vitamin C and calcium. Grape juice is another popular choice filled with high amounts of antioxidants.

Coconut - Coconut is compatible with protein powder in almost any form.  Use a little bit of coconut milk in your mix or even coconut water.  You can even use the flesh of a fresh coconut.  Coconuts are high in B vitamins, iron and dietary fiber.  It also has a sweet taste that will overpower any objectionable flavor of the protein powder.