Hi friends, happy Tuesday! Remember last week how I was all whiny about not knowing what the heck my ‘presence’ was on the internet? Am I a mama blogger, healthy living blogger, beer blogger…yadda yadda? Well, I’ve decided that I’m all of the above. I just really love all three topics so much, so why not write about all of it!

Today I want to focus a little bit on the healthy living aspect. I recently received a package in the mail that contained a few products from Genuine Health‘s new line of fermented Greek yogurt proteins+ line.

I eat Greek yogurt on the regular, but had no idea it could be made into a protein powder! I snagged some info about the proteins from their website to share:

Why Fermented Protein?

 

• Promotes overall digestive health and thereby healthy gut bacteria
• Primes the gut for the absorption of other health promoting ingredients
• Amplifies the nutritional value of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
• Facilitates optimal absorption by the body
• Supports the immune system

 

Why fermented Greek Yogurt?

Fermented Greek yogurt is high in protein and provides the amazing unique, nutritive benefits of dairy, without the digestive disturbances. Fermentation ensures optimum absorption from a superior protein source.

Why Grass-fed?

Conscious sourcing matters! The cows that produce milk used for the fermented Greek yogurt proteins+ are raised, pastured and farmed in dairies committed to sustainable practices, producing milk that is free from hormones, antibiotics and GMO’s. 

Key Benefits

 

• Conscious sourcing – made from grass fed dairy
• Superior formulation – strengthens gut & digestive health 
• Premium absorption – fermentation maximizes absorption

(source)

Right away, I knew I wanted to use the protein powder in a pretty basic recipe so I could see how my body reacted to it. I’ve used protein powders in the past that are either really chalky or make me bloated, so I wanted to give this stuff a fair shot.

First thing that came to mind: protein balls.

Ingredients

• 1/2 c natural peanut butter (you can sub for any other nut butter)
• 3T honey (you can sub maple syrup of agave)
• dash of sea salt
• one packet fermented Greek yogurt proteins+ vanilla

Directions

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Roll into 1″ balls. Store in airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. Optional** You may roll balls into coating of your choice. I used crushed pecans, cinnamon and cocoa. Other options include diced dried fruit, oats, coconut, cocao nibs, finely chopped seeds. Makes 12

These were incredibly easy to make. And they pack a great punch of flavor…and protein!

I calculated some nutritional stats based on the exact products I used and the balls (if you make 12) come out to be around 93 cals each and have 4.75g of protein. Not too shabby.

I somehow managed to squeeze 13 balls out of the recipe and rolled the extra in some rainbow sprinkles because I could.

They were so delicious, I had a hard time not eating the entire batch in one sitting. Even Wes got in on the fun and gobbled up one…in one bite!

I found the proteins to be pretty gentle on my system, so I will be making two more batches with the remainder of the protein powder I have left.

Next, I tested out the plain flavor in a smoothie. Rather that going my traditional chocolate route, I opted to make a Peanut Butter & Jelly smoothie. It hit the spot and once again Wes managed to sneak a good amount of it for himself.

Ingredients

• 1T natural peanut butter
• 1/4c oats
• frozen strawberries
• one packet fermented Greek Yogurt proteins+
• unsweetened almond milk

Again, the protein powder was super gentle on my stomach and provided the same flavor/consistancy as if I were using plain greek yogurt. (The upside to protein powder is that it’s more portable and has a better shelf life)

I’ve yet to try the bars, but I have no doubt that with flavors like Cinnamon Pecan & Cherry Almond Vanilla they won’t be hard to devour. Whenever I do get my hands on protein bars, I generally try to keep them in my car of gym bag as an emergency pick me up.

Let’s hear from you!–> Do you have a protein ball recipe that is your go to? OR What’s your go-to for incorporating more protein in your diet? I usually try to snack on cheese, meat or greek yogurt but will have a protein bar/smoothie if the mood strikes.