Yesterday we began a discussion of adding protein powders into your diet (for those who feel that they want or need to do this). One of the easiest ways to get this powder into your body is to add it to your morning smoothie. ?Now, if you're not into the habit of having a morning smoothie, step #1 is to get into that habit. ?(Actually, I don't just "have" morning smoothies; I thoroughly enjoy them!)

Now, you'll notice that smoothies made with protein powder taste quite a bit richer than what you might be used to. So, I want to start with a smoothie that I found to be somewhat light tasting. In fact, I'd even call it "The King" of smoothies. ?:-)

The Blue Hawaii Smoothie

• 1 young coconut (water and flesh)
• 1/4 of a pineapple
• 1 banana
• 1 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1 capful vanilla
• seeds from 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1 heaping scoop protein powder (optional)

Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender (preferably a Vitamix or Blendtek), and then pour into a tall glass. This is meant to be a rather watery smoothie, so feel free to add a bit of spring water if it comes out too thick. It should be sweet enough on its own to handle this dilution -- but you could always add a bit of stevia or agave if necessary. Finish by adding in the "blue" element -- stirring in a handful of fresh organic blueberries.

This is so unbelievably light and refreshing, it'll be like a mini vacation to the Big Island. ?Again, a direct link to the Warrior Food protein powder at Natural Zing is http://tinyurl.com/warriorfood. See you tomorrow for a much heavier, and equally delicious concoction!