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For the past month or two now I've taken on the challenge of starting to exercise. Healthy eating has been a part of my life for a good long while now, but I've never really been one to actually 'exercise'. I think the last time that I actually didn't anything with fitness was well before I had my little girl. That was over 5 years ago!

I've been 'hitting the gym' 3-4 days a week, doing everything from the treadmill, to tabata, cardio, pilates, barre, yoga and back again. I thought that starting in with a fitness routine would be hard, but I guess I was just mentally ready for it since I became addicted pretty much instantly. I haven't given myself a chance to quit or find an excuse not to go.

In fact, I've found myself considering it as 'part of my job duties'. It's a must do to complete my weekly tasks sort of thing. I feel so much better. Even after the first initial week of exercise I felt lighter, healthy, and more grounded.

With exercise I've found myself eating a bit more, but I've been sure to eat my usual better-for-you things. One of my go-to snacks and/or meals has become this cold brew coffee protein shake which keeps me full and satisfied while giving me that added pick-me-up so I can take on my day knowing I've taken care of myself already!

I left this protein shake gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of the good stuff. I decided to go with a brand of protein that I'm familiar with; Vega Essentials. It's made from real, whole food ingredients that I feel good about and it gives me the nutrition that I want and need for my more active lifestyle.

Skinny Cold Brew Coffee Protein Shake
TheSkinnyFork.com

The Skinny:
Servings: 1 • Size: 1 Shake • Calories: 162.5 • Fat: 4.5 g • Carb: 12 g • Fiber: 1 g • Protein: 17 g • Sugar: 8 g • Sodium: 150 mg

Ingredients:
1 C. Unsweetened Almond Milk
1/2 C. Cold Brew Black Coffee Concentrate
1/2 C. Ice Cubes
1 Level Scoop Vega Essentials (Vanilla)

Directions:

Toss all the ingredients together into a blender, immersion blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy to your liking.

I was able to find Vega Essentials in my local Target along with everything else I needed.

As a side note, for this recipe you can always use a cup of brewed strong black coffee that's been cooled in the fridge. I prefer the concentrate for the added boost of caffeine and rich coffee flavor.

While you're at Target, make use of the coupon above to get your $5 off your Vega Essentials!

Enjoy right away!

I've shared my favorite 'pick me up' shake. I'd love to hear what your favorite is!