Beyond Protein Shakes: 3 Steamy Drinks that can support Your Fitness Goals

Winter is here! Many of us love a nice warm beverage to get us in the holiday spirit. Here are our three, warming, protein-rich drink recipes that are perfect for cold days or post-workout recovery.

1. Spiced Protein Hot Chocolate

   - 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

   - 1 cup of chicken bone broth  (9g protein)

   - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

   - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

   - Tiny pinch of cayenne (optional)

   - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey to taste

Heat almond milk until hot but not boiling, then blend with other ingredients until smooth. This delicious recipe contains protein and antioxidants.

2. Vanilla Chai Protein Latte

   - 1 chai tea bag

   - 3/4 cup hot water

   - 1/4 cup warm milk of choice or chicken bone broth

   - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

   - Small pinch of nutmeg

Steep tea in hot water, add warm milk and other ingredients and blend until smooth. 

3. Protein-Packed Hot Matcha

   - 1 teaspoon matcha powder 

   - 1 cup hot milk of choice 

   - 1/2 tablespoon Manuka honey

   - Optional: 1 tablespoon collagen peptides for extra protein

Whisk matcha with a small amount of hot water first, then blend with the remaining ingredients. 

Protein is a necessary source of a nutrient-dense diet. It’s a fundamental pillar of a healthy diet, playing crucial roles that extend far beyond just building muscle. As one of the three main macronutrients, protein serves as the body's building blocks, essential for maintaining and repairing tissues, producing vital enzymes and hormones, and supporting a robust immune system.

Whether you're an athlete in training, a busy professional, or someone focused on healthy aging, adequate protein intake helps preserve lean muscle mass, boost metabolism, and promote longer-lasting satiety compared to carbs or fats. For those managing weight, protein's ability to keep you feeling full while consuming fewer calories makes it an invaluable ally. Getting enough protein throughout the day, rather than loading up on a single meal, helps optimize its benefits and ensures your body has the resources it needs to thrive. We hope these three, tasty drinks can support you on your journey.

Hope + Healing

The AU Wellness Teaam