Vegan Protein Shake For Weight Gain

Many people struggle with weight loss, but there are people who very much need to gain weight.

Omega 3s and GOOD fats play an important role in muscle mass and weight gain. Now, if you have participated in the Arbonne 28 days to feeling fit program...you know that we also advocate GOOD fats to LOSE weight. However, when gain is the goal - you do want to incorporate a greater amount of good fats in your diet, or in this case, smoothie recipe.

Raw nuts, nut milks, nut butters and nut meals are all good additions to help boost weight. In general, dairy can be inflammatory and should be avoided, but raw organic kefir may be a good addition to a vegan protein shake.

I did some digging to find a shake for weight gain from several sources, and muscle building and tweaked it. The base recipe came from the 4-Hour body, but it was heavy on foods that cause inflammation in many people.

This smoothie requires blending, versus shaker cup ease. However, when we are in a hurry at our home, and my husband does need weight gain - we add either Barlean's Flaxseed Oil or coconut oil that has sat in a warm water bath to bring to liquid form, into the shaker cup. If you don't mind little chunks, you can add ground flax seed or chia seed.

I will say, if you have access to great avocados - it is one of nature's most perfect foods, and will add rich creaminess to any shake. But for ease...we will not include in this recipe...  Organic is always preferred, and cold processed nut oils should be considered as exposing nut oils to heat contributes free radicals and defeats the purpose of trying to eat healthy. Avoid pre-ground flax seed as again, free radicals begin to develop from the moment the seeds are ground.

The vegan fat shake

12 ounces almond milk (making your own is always best, but we use Silk brand Original without carrageenan)

2 scoops Arbonne Essentials vegan protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)

2-3 T. nut butter* (Nutella, almond, and/or peanut butter)

1 T. ground flax seed (use coffee grinder to grind before adding to shake)

2 T. chia seeds (allow to soak overnight to gel, and then blend if you prefer smoother smoothies)

2 T. coconut oil or flax seed or coconut oil

1 banana or 1/2 avocado

Blend all ingredients in a blender.

For meal replacement, versus post workout shake, add 1/2 to 1 scoop Arbonne Essentials Fiber Boost.

For serious weight gain needs, add 1 teaspoon Maca powder.

Add ins for extra health kickin' goodness - a scoop of Arbonne Greens Balance.

*Use Sunbutter (sunflower seed) if allergic to nuts

To your health, and gain!

Rita S.