CREAMY COCONUT CASHEW SMOOTHIE | SCD + PALEO

This recipe was created for Earth Fare.

Ten years ago, I never would have imagined that one day I would be adding fats into my diet. It turns out that not all fats are created equal and, in fact, our body needs healthy fats to function properly. Healthy fats can lower bad cholesterol, protect against heart disease, improve brain function and even strengthen hair and nails. Plus, these nutritious fats are packed with a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that benefit the body from the inside out.

One of the easiest ways I can add healthy fats into my family’s diet is through a hearty smoothie. This creamy coconut cashew smoothie is high in healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, which makes it an excellent anti-inflammatory snack.

While cashews are full of essential minerals and vitamins, they are also rich in heart-friendly monounsaturated fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help lower harmful cholesterol while increasing good cholesterol in the blood, which can prevent heart disease and strokes.

It turns out that coconuts, and coconut oil, are the richest sources of saturated fat on the planet. Lauric acid, the healthy saturated fat found in coconuts, can help fight off bacteria, improves cholesterol, and can help with weight loss. By adding coconut to your diet, you’re packing in extra healthy-plant based fats and getting a hearty dose of anti-inflammatory properties.

As a general guideline for consuming healthy fats, you’ll want to consume minimally-processed foods that have multiple benefits to your health. Avocados, coconuts, organic butter and ghee, salmon, nuts, extra virgin olive oil, grass-fed beef and yogurt are all excellent choices.

Creamy Coconut Cashew Smoothie
SCD (omit cocoa drizzle) Paleo, Gluten-free, Refined Sugar-free, Vegan
Yield: 2 servings

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs. coconut butter
2 bananas
1/2 avocado
4 dates, soaked for ½ hour in water
1/3 cup cashew butter
½ cup coconut milk, canned (this brand is legal)
½ cup almond milk, homemade to be in compliance with the SCD diet
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp Himalayan salt
4-5 ice cubes
fruit for a topping

OPTIONAL:
4 ounces 100% cocoa chocolate bar
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 Tbs, honey
*you'll have leftover cocoa drizzle, save for later
*omit the drizzle to make SCD legal

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
Vitamix or Blender (I use this one)
Classic Ice Cream Soda Glasses

Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Top with blackberries, figs, bananas or any fruit of your choice.
3. Optional; melt the dark chocolate and blend in a blender with the coconut milk and honey. Drizzle on top.