Matcha Collagen Tea

This is probably the most nutrient dense tea that I make. The matcha is loaded with antioxidants, is rich in fiber, chlorophyll and vitamins. It boosts metabolism, detoxifies naturally, enhances mood and concentration. But wait: there's more! The coconut butter adds trace minerals, fiber and lauric acid that boosts your immune system and metabolism. And the collagen? Don't get me started: helps your gut, does wonders for your skin, hair and nails and oh-so-much more! 

Ingredients

• 12-16 ounces water
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1 scoop of Vanilla Collagen powder
• 1 teaspoon coconut butter
• Stevia drops (to taste)

"Swap Outs": Here's where you can experiment! Instead of collagen, you can use a vanilla whey-based protein powder or, instead of coconut butter, try some MCT oil. Even add a splash of coconut milk or whatever milk you have on hand. It's like Garanimals, remember those? Just mix and match your favorites. I love the collagen and coconut butter the best because it lends a layer of creaminess without any dairy.

Quick Tip:

• Be sure your matcha comes from Japan. In China and other places, there can be very high lead levels. Japanese matcha is lead-free. The kind I use is from a local company here in Portland called Mizuba. She works with an organic farm in Japan. You can oder their products online.
• I like to whisk my matcha before tossing it in the blender. I probably don't need that step, but it's my kind of Zen moment for the day. For me, making healthy food is my daily meditation. It's that time I can devote to me, so I savor that.

Where's the...goodness? Um, everywhere. Matcha has all sorts of brain and body boosting nutrients without that caffeine jolt that will send you crashing later. Don't get me wrong, I love my caffeine, but the boost in this is brain focusing, not jittery. So good! 

How to prepare

• Boil water
• Prepare the matcha with a whisk as directed on the tea (or just dump in the blender if you don't have time to be all Zen about it)
• Add the collagen,  coconut butter and Stevia
• Blend for 30 seconds or so until frothy 
• Pour into your fave to-go cup or -- better yet -- fill your favorite mug and stop moving for at least two minutes and enjoy the fact that you are doing something amazing for yourself right now. Be present. Breathe. Sip. Repeat. You can already feel those cortisol levels lowering and your blood pressure easing, can't you. See? Self care is priceless, my friend!

Macronutrient breakdown as prepared:

Calories: 100 per mug    10 grams protein       1 gram carb      6 grams heart-healthy fat