Did you know that protein powders are a source of free glutamate aka MSG? We avoid them like the plague. However, if you’re interested in adding a little more protein to your smoothie/shake toss in some hemp seeds.  This shake is a treat and should actually be called some sorta latte cappa-thing.

Ingredients

3/4 cup cold coffee

1 1/2 frozen banana

2 tbsp raw cashews

1 tbsp hemp seeds

1/2 tbsp to 1 tbsp of cacao nibs or powder

3 dates

1 tsp homemade vanilla extract

3-4 ice cubes

Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a high powered blender, blend and serve.

 

Tidbits

Cacao is preferred over cocoa to keep glutamate levels lower, but this can still be problematic for many as both cacao & bananas are higher in salicylates, histamine, etc. Coffee can also contribute to the glutamate/GABA imbalance as caffeine inhibits GABA.