Adaptogenic Pumpkin Spice Latte

Fall is my absolute favourite time of year! Gorgeous colours, crisp air, root vegetables galore and warm beverages! I love waking up to something creamy and filling in the mornings and taking my time to sip and enjoy the beautiful fall weather. My adaptogenic pumpkin spice latte is just what my body needs in the morning before a busy day to nourish my body and mind.

Like many fall-loving humans, I also enjoy the occasional pumpkin spice treat, however, I don’t do processed food (and neither should you!), so while you may see “pumpkin spice” at Starbucks and beyond, it won’t compare to this creamy latte that is made with real foods, adaptogens (more on that below!) and zero refined sugar. So skip the Starbucks line and make this yummy and nourishing treat! Your body, belly and mind will thank you – I promise!

Adaptogenic Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients 

• 1 cup warmed cashew milk (or other nondairy milk)
• 1 Tbsp. coconut butter (coconut oil is another option)
• 1 scoop collagen peptides
• 1 tsp. pumpkin spice
• ½ tsp. ashwagandha
• liquid stevia or maple syrup to taste

Why I love this latte:

It is nourishing to both the body and soul thanks to the incorporation of 1) adaptogens, 2) healthy fats and 3) collagen peptides.

Adaptogens are natural substances such as herbs and roots that assist in naturally protecting the body and mind from the adverse effects of physical, chemical or biological stressors.

Ashwagandha falls into the category of adaptogens and has been proven to

• Increases physical and mental stamina and performance
• Increases vitality
• Relieves stress
• Boosts brain and cognitive function

How does it taste? Ashwagandha has an earthy, nutty taste that pairs well with cinnamon, vanilla or maca.

Healthy fats, such as coconut butter not only lend a tremendous amount of creamy texture and delicious flavor, but are incredibly satiating and a wonderful addition to your diet.

Why Healthy Fats Rule

Fats are the most caloric macronutrient (9 calories per gram), and so naturally, they give us a great amount of energy and keep us satiated for hours after eating them. Additionally, they recharge our brains, build hormones, cell membranes, increase our body’s fat burning (yes, it’s true!), keep us satiated longer and make us look and feel awesome.

Choosing the Right Fats

Not all fats are equal, so it’s crucial you choose healthy fats like coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, egg yolks and so on to reap the benefits of these nutrient-dense foods. Saturated fats like coconut butter, which is made from whole coconut flesh and pureed into a rich and thick spread is just as terrific for you as coconut oil. Fats like coconut oil and butter are especially beneficial because they are rich in lauric acid (a saturated fatty acid), which boosts immunity and destroys harmful bacteria, viruses, and funguses. It actually boosts your metabolism, which aids in weight loss and increases energy levels.

Collagen peptides – what are they?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is the glue that holds us together. Collagen is found in the bones, muscles, skin and tendons where it provides strength and structure. Unfortunately, as we age (as early as 29!) our body begins to lose collagen and the supple elasticity that comes with it. This happens for a number of reasons including daily free-radical damage.

How supplementing with collagen peptides can help!

Supplementing with collagen peptides will restore your skin’s moisture and improve its elasticity, tone and vibrancy! In addition to being a part of a natural beauty routine, collagen peptides are great to have as a post-workout source of protein. Containing essential amino acids, collagen peptides are ideal for muscle repair and recovery. They are incredibly satiating so they are great in staving off hunger. They’re also wonderful in alleviating joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. Finally, collagen also supports a healthy gut! They contains certain amino acids that are essential to healing and strengthening damaged intestinal lining.

How they taste, how to use them and where to buy

I love Further Food Collagen Peptides because they are of the utmost quality! One ingredient and sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, their peptides are odorless, tasteless, and mix easily into anything from water, coffee, yogurt, oatmeal, sauces, baked goods and more!  Their website also has a lot of fantastic recipes to get you started! If you decide to order, be sure to use the code BRINGOUTYOURBLISS10 for a discount – this is not an affiliate program, just a wonderful bargain!

I hope you enjoy kicking of this amazing time of year with this nourishing latte. Let us know if you try it and how you like it!

Happy Autumn!
Marisa