Smoothie Fun with Manitoba Harvest

Image courtesy of Manitoba Harvest

Image courtesy of Manitoba Harvest

Many people associate the hemp plant with marijuana, not realizing that the amount of THC in hemp seeds is super microscopic and has 0% of the “feel good” effect that marijuana is known for.  HOWEVER, the beauty in hemp is that it is jam packed with nutritious goodies that are hard to resist.


My first time trying hemp hearts was about two years ago when I added some to a salad and the rest is history! I then started incorporating hemp as a topping for my yogurt, smoothies, and a variety of other snackables.  You name it - hemp was going in it.  Ironically, Manitoba Harvest has always been my go-to brand so, you can only imagine how excited I was when I found out I was going to get the opportunity to try out their new protein smoothie! Last month I began incorporating protein shakes into my daily regimen and with Manitoba now offering protein smoothies in 3 different flavors I felt like I had hit the jackpot.  The many varieties that can be created with this are limitless and the flavors offered can enhance any smoothie or smoothie bowl recipe that you’re already obsessing over.

My favorite part about this protein smoothie powder was that I was left feeling full and fulfilled. The mixed berry version was PERFECT for my acai smoothie bowl and the vanilla was a great addition to any smoothie recipe I already had. My least favorite part would have to have been the chocolate smoothie in general. To me it lacked flavor and the only time I or my mini Peyton enjoyed it was when I used it to make chocolate banana ice cream.  Alone it just wasn’t doing anything for me, which was disappointing.

Photo courtesy of Juan Carlos Puebla of 52nd Witness Photography

Photo courtesy of Juan Carlos Puebla of 52nd Witness Photography

At this point you may be asking yourself, “How can hemp benefit me? What’s the point? Is this just another health trend?” By the time you finish reading this, you will have all of the information needed to determine if Manitoba’s Protein Smoothies are right for you.

Benefits of Hemp

Hemp is rich in protein and fiber which is great at slowing down your digestive system.  Why would you want to slow down your digestive system? Well, a slow digestive system will allow for your body to be able to sustain its energy a little bit longer and I don’t know about you guys, but I could definitely use some added energy in my life.  This will also result in keeping you fuller longer which can prevent unnecessary and unhealthy snacking. Did I mention the Omega 3’s and 6’s in hemp?! All of these fatty acids can help your hair and skin, metabolism, brain function, and muscle control.

 

 

What’s The Point?

On top of all of the nutritional benefits, hemp just tastes good. It is closely associated with sunflower seeds as it relates to it’s nutty consistency and is perfect on top of salads, smoothies, blended into nut butters, or garnished on top of your favorite yogurt.

Trend?

 

Honestly, yes - but I hope it is one that does not go away anytime soon. Hemp can not be grown in the United States because of its close association with “mood altering cultivators” but between 2008 and 2015 sales have increased 285%!

 

The only thing left for you to do is grab some Manitoba Harvest Protein Smoothies for yourself and see what yummy concoctions you can create! If you do, make sure to enter the contest and post your pictures on social media using the #hempproteinsmoothie and tagging Manitoba Harvest. Participants will be entered to win a case of their favorite flavor of Hemp Protein Smoothie. How fun is that?

Photo courtesy of Manitoba Harvest

Photo courtesy of Manitoba Harvest

 

 

Please Note:  This post is sponsored. All comments about this product are my own and I have and will always remain transparent about my opinions. I will not endorse any products  that I would not and have not used  on my healthy living lifestyle journey.