Our friend, Its Lovely Lately blogger, Katie Christensen is living at the beach in Los Angeles with her surfer husband. She is an avid yogi and runner with a knack for trying new recipes along with modifications of “comfort foods” and baked goods that offer max nutritional benefits while still feeding the soul and not feeling deprived. As she describes “I am a huge believer in the power of food; natural, organic and whole, and the incredible benefits a healthy diet can have on your physical and emotional/spiritual health.” We are so happy to have her a guest on bikinibird. Enjoy!

With bikini season right around the corner (ahh!), many of us are starting to think about what we can do to get into tip-top beach-ready shape, stat!  One of the best things a woman can do for her diet is to start with a healthy breakfast (don’t skip it!).  Studies show that women who eat a nutritious, balanced morning meal weigh less & have less fat/cellulite than those who don’t, so it’s super important to make sure you treat your body to something yummy first thing in the morning if you want to look your best on the beach.

For years, I’ve started every morning with a “power smoothie” – a protein & antioxidant packed delicious shake.  I’ve experimented with tons of various self-made recipes, and this is one of my simple faves.  It’s great for a boost of energy and the perfect start to a busy day (even my hubby loves ‘em and swears they help his active lifestyle of surfing & paddling).  Takes less than 5 min to prepare and you’re off to a running startServes 2

1 Cup fresh strawberries
1 Cup frozen or fresh blueberries
1 Banana
1/2 Cup organic OJ
1/2 Cup almond milk
1/2 Cup lowfat milk (or do full cup almond milk if vegan)
Protien powder – my favorite is Biochem Vanilla (Whole Foods, Mother’s Market)
1 tbsp coconut butter (NOT oil – it comes in a jar similar to peanut butter, avail @ Whole Foods, Mother’s)

And…supplements:
2 tbsp of Flax Oil
2 tsp of Spirulina – superfood full of antioxidents, like eating multiple servings of veggies

Optional but GREAT for super nutrition:
1 Cup frozen broccoli
OR
1 Cup fresh spinach

The coconut butter & flax oil create a super creamy & yummy texture. I blend for at least 30 sec – 1 min to really get everything mixed with no chunks. You can’t taste the veggies at all – they just change the texture a bit, and you can expect a funky-looking green drink…but it’s so tasty!

Also – the protein powder makes a big difference, so even though Biochem is not cheap, it’s totally worth it – the best quality – type of protein and high concentration with lower calories. And it tastes the best!!

Enjoy…xoxo!