5 Go-To Summer Protein Shakes

To survive the summer heat, many of us add snow cones, "Froyo", slurpies, and milkshakes (whatever your choice of poison may be) to our diets. The problem with sipping on those cool, sweet drinks, however, is the massive amount of sugar that accompanies them, along with the empty calories. So why not make your own, healthier summer smoothie? Even better, why not add a kick of protein?

Save yourself the cash, calories, and insulin spikes, and make your own smoothies at home! My bad habit is I like drinks with me when I am running errands. I would almost bet my life on that about 90% of you probably do as well. When I am on the go and running errands, I am a people watcher! I notice everyone has some sort of drink with them, and the majority of those drinks are 40oz Thirst busters full of soda... AND don't even try and tell me " But it's DIET soda!" I won't even touch that topic right now or we'll be here all night! The good thing about these shakes is you can whip them together quickly at home and throw them in a to-go cup and bring it with you, everyone has red Solo cups right?!

Real fruit and whole ingredients are much tastier than corn-syrupy puree that will give you cancer and cause your fat cells to grow, anyway. Sorry... a little brutal but hey, no beatin' around the bush with this one!

These five simple recipes make delicious, refreshing smoothies that are packed with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Enjoy them as they are or add your own spin for more unique flavors!

1. Pina Colada

Instead of adding rum, add some protein! By making some healthy changes to this yummy favorite, you get to enjoy it without the guilt.

1/2 cup Pineapple, chopped

1/2 frozen Banana

1 scoop Vanilla Protein

1/2 cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk

1/2 cup Water and Crushed Ice

Add all ingredients in a blender. Blend, pour, and enjoy! 

Calories: 219  Fat: 5g Carbs: 28g Protein: 20g

2. Watermelon Mint

1 cup Watermelon, cubed

1/2 cup Liquid Egg Whites

Mint Sprigs

Crushed Ice

Calories: 111  Fat: 1g  Carbs: 17g  Protein:  14g

3. Strawberry Papaya

1/2 Cup Strawberries

1 cup Papaya, sliced

1 cup Non-fat Plain Greek yogurt

1/2 Cup Water and Crushed Ice

Calories: 108  Fat: .2g  Carbs: 15g  Protein: 13g

4. Cranberry-Coco Fiber Kicker

1 tbsp dried Unsweetened Cranberries

1/2 cup frozen Cherries

1/2 tbsp Chia Seeds

1/2 tbsp Flaxseeds

1/3 cup Non-fat Plain Greek Yogurt

1/2 cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk

Crushed Ice

Calories: 307  Fat: 7g  Carbs: 52g  Protein: 11g

**suggestion for this one: if you would like more protein and less calories, take out the greek yogurt and add water or unsweetened green tea with a scoop of Whey protein.

5. Coconut Mango Monster

Mangos are a great source of vitamin A and C, as well as potassium, calcium, and many more. Eat them!!

1 Cup chopped Mango

1/2 cup Unsweeted Coconut Milk

1 scoop Whey Vanilla Protein Powder

Calories: 224  Fat: 5g  Carbs: 29g  Protein: 20g