Winter Warming, Fat Burning, Protein Chai Latte

When I think Chai Latte, I think of all the warm delicious spices as a comfort on a wet and cold day....

Unfortunately though when I think Chai Latte I also think about the sugar spike - yikes!

So I decided to create a health friendlier version of this delicious pick me up, with the added benefit of protein, lower carbohydrates and some good quality fats making for a great snack or mini meal.

The recipe consists of coconut milk, which although high in saturated fats, not all saturated fats are created equal! Coconut milk contains a beneficial fatty acid called Lauric acid. This Medium Chain Triglyceride is used by the body for energy and is easily absorbed by the body. Lauric acid has been proven to help improve cholesterol levels as well as cardiovascular health. MCT oils are also known to be fat-burning fuel, decrease inflammation and balance blood sugar. Coconut milk also contains electrolytes and is an excellent source of plant-based iron.

The cinnamon in this recipe is another addition for a healthy winter and defeating winter blues. There are many proven health and medicinal benefits of cinnamon including lowering cholesterol, decreasing inflammation, lowering blood sugars and aiding to fight bacterial and fungal infections. Be sure to only purchase ceylon or 'true cinnamon' as opposed to cassia cinnamon, as cassia cinnamon can have the opposite effect. Unfortunately most cheaper cinnamon purchased from the supermarket is that of cassia cinnamon.

The addition of cloves, ginger, cardamom and nutmeg help aid digestion, increase the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, lowers cholesterol and boosts the immune system.

So all in all, this delicious drink is super health supportive, helps build muscle with the help of the protein and iron, and is certainly fat burning fuel.

Enjoy!

PROTEIN CHAI LATTE

1/2 cup Coconut Milk with 1/2 cup of water OR 1 cup Almond Milk
2 scoops of Vanilla Plant-based protein (I use Arbonne Vanilla Protein Powder due to all the added amazing vitamins and minerals. The protein powder is designed to be easily digested for maximum nutrient absorption).
50ml of water for consistency (optional)
2 teaspoons of cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 pinch of ground ginger
1 pinch cardamom
liquid stevia drops for added sweetness (optional)