Start Your Morning Right: Chocolate Banana Smoothie

I recently read an article about the benefits of starting your morning with a protein-packed breakfast. It's crazy how one little change in your diet can effect your day! 

Here are just a few of the benefits:

Alertness
A morning meal high in protein raises your brain's tyrosine levels. This helps your brain produce neurotransmitters called norepinephrine and dopamine, which give you energy and make you feel awake and alert.

Satisfaction
Just because Mick Jager couldn't get it doesn't mean you can't! Having a breakfast rich in protein can help you stay fuller for longer compared to having a lower-protein breakfast.


Amino Acids
Two amino acids, glutamate and aspartate, act as brain neurotransmitters, and are obtained from protein. If you have eggs, meat, fish or poultry with breakfast, your brain will have all of the neurotransmitters it needs to help your entire body function properly.

Pair with Complex Carbs for an added boost!
Pairing your protein source with complex carbohydrates can help you remain satisfied until lunch, reducing your urge to have between-meal snacks.

I decided that since tofu is a protein powerhouse that would be my go-to addition. Since I am one of those people who hits snooze 5 times and waits until I absolutely HAVE to get up, I don't have time to whip up a delicious tofu-scramble before I dart out the door, so a smoothie it is! 

Chocolate Banana Smoothie

1/2 pkg of Nasoya Silken Tofu
2 scoops of vanilla protein powder
1 tbsp natural cocoa powder
1 tbsp agave
1 whole banana
1 cup of ice

Blend ingredients together and enjoy! 

*Make this dessert by adding in a handful of dark chocolate chips! A little extra treat, you deserve it!