Acai Glow Breakfast Bowl
Acai bowls have become a staple in my routine recently, and I'm not mad about it all.
I had been seeing these magical bowls all over IG for months before I really got a chance to experience one. I was in LA for Indie Beauty Expo in January and there was a cute little spot by my hotel that so happened to offer Acai bowls.
After having my first mind blowing, deliciously incredible acai bowl, I was determined to continue making them once I got back to North Carolina. Being that I like to rebel against the norm, I put a few twists on my acai bowl.
A few things I do to maximize my bowl is to add Organic Peanut Butter, Raw Cacao, and top with Raw Hemp Hearts and Chia seeds.
I think of food as fuel for the body and mind, and try to incorporate as many vitamins and nutrients as possible into every single thing I eat. It's really about being intentional with everything in my life, as I feel it brings the most joy and happiness.
Que the Acai Glow Bowl! Packed with protein, vitamins, nutrients, and a whole lot of delicious.
You've heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this 5 minute bowl will not only keep your hunger at bay (there's nothing worse than getting hangry 15 minutes into your Monday morning) but it will also help you think more clearly and be happier.
Happier? Yes.
Raw Cacao
Raw Cacao is one of the superstar ingredients in this Acai Glow Bowl which contains anandamide, also known as the bliss molecule, and creates a feeling of euphoria. Another mood enhancing compound found in cacao is phenethylamine, which triggers the release of endorphins and pleasurable opium-like neurochemicals. Cacao also boosts serotonin in the brain, aka the feel good chemical.
Using Raw Cacao in food as opposed to eating chocolate all day - especially for those of us who break out from eating too much sugar - is a super easy way to see the good in your everyday life.
Our fav brand:
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Cacao Powder, 1 Pound
Organic PB
I'm always looking for more ways to eat PB. Can you blame me? Surprisingly, Smuckers Organic PB has the most vitamins and nutrients in it as opposed to other brands.
A few nutrients found in every 2 tbsp of this PB that are relatively hard to consume when not included in supplements are:
Niacin 30%
Vitamin E 20%
Iron 8%
Potassium 4%
Calcium 2%
Plus it contains 8 grams of protein per 2 tbsp, which helps to keep hunger pains at bay.
Raw Hemp Hearts
If you haven't heard of or tried these little nuggets of goodness, you're missing out. Not only do they pack a huge protein punch with 10g of protein per 3 tbsp, but they also contain a slew of vitamins and nutrients to get your day off to a great start!
Nutrient breakdown per 3 tbsp:
110% Manganese (super hard to get this nutrient on the regular)
45% Magnesium (most Americans are deficient)
45% Phosphorous
25% Thiamin
20% Iron
20% Zinc
Vitamin B6 8%
Folate 8%
Our fav brand:
Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts Raw Shelled Hemp Seeds, 1lb; with 10g protein& Omegas per Serving (Packaging May Vary), Non-GMO, Gluten Free
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds contain a whole slew of beneficial properties including Omega 3's and antioxidants!
Nutrient breakdown per 1 tbsp:
20% daily dietary fiber
10% Magnesium
8% Calcium
6% Iron
3 grams Protein
Our fav brand:
Nutiva Organic, non-GMO, Raw, Premium Black Chia Seeds, 32 Ounce
Acai (Unsweetened)
Loaded with antioxidants that fight free radicals, aka the bad molecules that have been linked to cancer and pre-mature aging. Acai has good fats in it, and is also high in fiber. Trader Joe's has packs of 4 in their frozen section that are really affordable.
Unsweetened Cashew Milk
I swapped my Almond Milk addiction for Cashew milk after finding how much creamier and thicker Cashew Milk was. At the time I was drinking protein shakes every morning and bought cashew milk on a whim. To be honest, I haven't looked back since!
Nutrient breakdown per 8 oz:
45% Calcium
25% Vitamin D
20% Vitamin E
2% Iron
Mixed Frozen Berries (Unsweetened)
I like to do the strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry mix to get the maximum vitamins and nutrients without much hassle. Frozen is awesome, because you don't have to worry about your berries going bad on you if you forget about them for a few days.
Loaded with Vitamin A, C, Fiber, and Antioxidants. Blueberries in particular contain an antioxidant called anthocyanins, that may help sharpen memory as you age. While raspberries contain ellagic acid, a compound with cancer fighting properties.
You can also add all kinds of good toppings like shredded coconut, fresh strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, cacao nibs, matcha, or any other goodness that tickles your fancy that day.
Switch it up, have fun with it, and don't be afraid to experiment!
Now that we know how beneficial these Acai Glow Bowls are, lets get down to the good stuff.
THE EATING!
The image is pinnable, so don't forget to save it to your fav Pinterest board so you can always find it :)
Have a fabulous day babe and no matter what journey you're on, don't forget to be kind to yourself. You're beautiful!
xoxo,
Angelica