‘Tis the season for indulgences. During this time of year, I often get frantic reach outs from clients who want the best tips on how to avoid all the less-than-healthy treats that the holidays can bring. And although we can enjoy a few desserts without being thrown too far off our plan, there are a few different strategies I like to implement with my clients to make sure they’re progressing on their program while still feeling like they’re enjoying the season.
One of my most popular strategies is modifying my clients’ daily shake to be a little more festive. That way they can still enjoy holiday flavors on the regular without sacrificing their nutrition. A morning shake habit can be so effective (especially this time of year) if done right as it can set the entire tone of your day, helping you make better nutrition choices at every meal that follows.
Here are four of my favorite holiday shake recipes for you to enjoy this season.
Cinnamon Roll Shake
Makes 1 serving • Prep time 5 minutes
- 8 oz. unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 serving vanilla LTH Protein Powder
- 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower
- 1 tbs. sunflower butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- 3 to 5 ice cubes
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
Note: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a few more shakes — the more the merrier. Cinnamon contains some amazing antioxidants that have been shown to support a healthy heart and blood-sugar levels.
Nutritional Info: Calories: 315 | Protein: 30 | Carbs: 18 | Fat: 12
Chocolate-Covered Cherry Shake
Makes 1 serving • Prep time 5 minutes
- 8 oz. unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 serving chocolate LTH Protein Powder
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup frozen cherries
- 1 tbs. sunflower butter (or natural nut butter)
- 3 to 5 ice cubes
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
Note: If you don’t have chocolate protein powder, you can substitute a vanilla-flavored powder and add one tablespoon of 100 percent cacao powder.
Nutritional Info: Calories: 345 | Protein: 27 | Carbs: 28 | Fat: 16
Candy Cane Shake
Makes 1 serving • Prep time 5 minutes
- 8 oz. unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 serving vanilla LTH Protein Powder
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 tbs. chia seeds
- 1/2 tsp. of peppermint or mint extract
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 3 to 5 ice cubes
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
Nutritional Info: Calories: 295 | Protein: 26 | Carbs: 24 | Fat: 10
Tastes Like a Sugar Cookie Shake
Makes 1 serving • Prep time 5 minutes
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
Nutritional Info: Calories: 410 | Protein: 35 | Carbs: 23 | Fat: 22
