Thai Banana Chocolate Coffee Protein Smoothie- Bringing Asian Flair to your Health Shake

Thai Banana Chocolate Coffee Protein Smoothie

Last night I went to the Asian market near our apartment not sure what I wanted.  I always go through knowing that I can't judge any book by its cover because I really just understand the tip of the iceberg on so many things there.  The store didn't disappoint last night as they had Thai Bananas which I had never heard of before.

The Background on Thai Bananas

Thai Floating Fruit Market

Upon a little research, I found out that there are over 50 varieties of bananas in Thailand.  I also discovered that all bananas come from Southeast Asia.  They grow all year long, and I found out that my wife used to steal them from the neighbor's trees.  Hehehe.  Cute right? 

There is a serious disease threatening to spread around the world.  It could go similar to the way the potato famine did if all our bananas were in one basket.  Fortunately, there is some diversity.  These smaller versions are one example.

The taste is, of course, sweet and familiar and my wife, who typically doesn't like bananas actually liked this recipe.  It inspired another upcoming banana dessert recipe she will make.  They are tasty little buggers.

This variety in the US markets is often called simply, Thai bananas.  You might also see it called lady fingers or Gluay Lep Muu Nang.  You can check out the Wikipedia page on the variety for more information.

My Recipe

It has been a bit controversial, but I like to add protein, creatine and this carbohydrate mix called glycomaize to my smoothies.  A lot of people consider these things recovery products for after a workout.  I don't really agree.

I took nutrition for sport and fitness as part of my B.S.  The class felt like a bitch session with most products not having enough evidence to support their claims.  This according to the FDA.  As a disclaimer, I took this class over ten years ago.  Let me know if you know something new from the FDA.  I trust the FDA; their interests are not in conflict with mine.

Creatine and caffeine were two of the only substances that they felt had enough evidence to support their claims.  Creatine recharges an ADP to ATP for the creatine phosphate, CP, quick burst energy system.  Caffeine binds to the adenosine receptors which triggers the body to produce adrenaline.

Of course, a banana protein smoothie brings the potassium of bananas.  Potassium is good to help relieve muscle soreness as every gym instructor knows.

The glycomaize has both simple and complex carbohydrates meaning you get sustained energy.   I like the chocolate in the chocolate milk as it somehow worked better than most recovery drinks in some studies.  I haven't read so much on this one so I don't know as much but I like the taste.  I have to go with a soy version because my body creates mucus in response to dairy. 

Speaking of my individual health concerns, you may want to leave out the creatine if you have concerns about elevated creatinine levels.  It also may have side effects.  As always, when in doubt check it out.  Check with your appropriate doctor or health care providers.

Thai Banana Protein Smoothie Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 3 Thai bananas
• 1 scoop coffee protein powder (or 1 scoop protein powder and 1 tablespoon instant coffee)
• 1 scoop glycomaize
• 1 scoop creatine
• 1 tablespoon ice
• 1 -2 cups chocolate milk

Instructions:

Thai Banana Smoothie

1. I like to use the Oster MyBlend in the picture.  Just blend that stuff until it is smooth and serve cold.

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