Happy New Year everyone! I couldn't think of a better way to start off 2013 than to serve up a delicious vegan shake recipe + a fantastic giveaway here on my blog, featuring one of my favorite vegan brands: Vega!
The Shake: Peanut butter meets chocolate in this choco-chip banana peanut butter shake - featuring Vega's Maca Chocolate and All-in-One Shake. SO good! (And healthy!)
This month, Vega is proudly launching an inspiring (free!) program called Thrive Forward - to help you get healthy in 2013. Thrive Forward was designed by vegan athlete Brendan Brazier...
Thrive Forward Introduction..
Coming January 2013: Thrive Forward is a free personalized online performance program designed by Brendan Brazier. Pre-register now and get a Thrive Forward 101 Starter e-book at http://bit.ly/ThriveFor
Giveaway! Thrive Forward Vega Lover Goodie Basket:
· Vega One tub: 1 Large
· Vega Energizing Smoothie: 3 Pouches
· Vega T-shirt
· Vega Sport Pre-Workout Energizer Packs
· Vega Carry Bag
· Thrive Foods by Brendan Brazier
GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED - CONGRATS JOANNA G.. (yay.. giveaway open to USA and CANADA!)
Recipe...
Kathy's Peanut Butter, Vega Maca Chocolate Chip Shake
vegan, makes one shake
4 ounces unsweetened almond milk
4 ounces water (or more almond milk)
1 scoop Vega One Shake, French Vanilla (or chocolate!)
1 ½ bananas, frozen
⅓ - ½ bar of Vega Maca Chocolate
1 tablespoon peanut butter (or almond butter)
½ cup ice
Blend all ingredients except the chocolate. When shake is smooth, add in the Maca Chocolate and blend on low until it blends into chips.
The Maca Chocolate gives this shake a malted flavor that is AMAZING!!! I had this for breakfast this morning and it started my 2013 off quite perfectly. Any I felt incredibly energized and satisfied. (A chocolate-infused healthy breakfast will do that to a person.)
Tip! You can easily add the Vega One or Vega Energizing shake powders to your favorite smoothie. Here is how I do it... Since the Vega shakes do provide sweetness, when using in a smoothie, just be sure to not over sweeten. I do this by omitting any added sweeteners like agave or maple syrup - and/or by subbing any sweet liquids (like fruit juice or vanilla plant milks) with unsweetened non-dairy milk or water. I also add in extra ice cubes.
Some Vega Products I love..
I recently tried Vega's Maca Chocolate bars and they are pretty outstanding if you love including dark chocolate in your diet. 70% cacao bars! I like to nibble small bits whenever I am craving a chocolate fix.
I also recently tried the Vega Vibrancy Bars in Berry Bliss. I loved all the healthy ingredients in each bar: dates, raw almonds, white chia seeds and plenty of sweet berry flavor. Perfect for a quick energy boost between meals or on the go. I am eager to try to chocolate flavor.
And I really LOVE the smoothie/shake powders. My favorite is the Vega One Nutritional Shake. In one scoop you can add soooo many healthy things to your smoothie. Including: 50% daily intake of vitamins and minerals, 15 g protein, 6 g fiber, 1.5 g Omega-3, Antioxidants, Probiotics, Greens.
Formulated by Brendan Brazier, professional Ironman triathlete and bestselling author on performance nutrition, Vega One is free from dairy, gluten and soy, and contains no added sugar, artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners.
Some more of my Vega smoothie recipes:
* Chocolate Avocado Vega Shake
* Vanilla Berry Vega Shake
Get more info about Vega products and news online: MyVega.com
Disclosure: This giveaway is sponsored by Vega, but opinions are my own.
Livomac says
I only had the Vega One Natural flavour on hand, so I added 1T of cocoa powder as well, it was quite delicious. What a great smoothie, I feel like I'm eating something bad for me 🙂
samantha fiedler says
what is vega milk cholectet or mint what i think that it will be great and all but what vega
Mike Zim says
Hey Kathy I checked out the Vega One shake and it is impressive. I've been using the Alive- Ultra Shake and I love that one. Do you have any knowledge or advice between the two? I like the Ultra shake because it does give you higher values of certain vitamins especially B12 since it's harder to digest.
Christi Williams says
I am thriving forward by eating healthier, slowing down, and being true to myself.
Pam Flynn says
I am thriving forward by slowing down on the chips and dip.
Jennifer Hayes says
I am thriving forward by walking for exercise everyday and eating more fruits and vegetables.
Jeni Mitchell says
I'm thriving forward by committing to eating breakfast on a more regular basis.
Alena Svetelska says
I am THRIVE-ing forward by cutting out processed food from my diet and eating less sugar
Joanne Gentry says
I am thriving forward by eating healthier, eliminating sugar and exercising 5x a week! Yay! I am excited about your products for sure!
CMC says
I am on a low-carb diet and have begun swimming again (after a long hiatus) and am continuing my running. I feel great!
Amy Merriam says
I am eating fewer carbs and more protein...starting out on a weight loss "journey".
Laura R Segal says
In 2013, I am moving forward by only sustaining myself with whole, plant-based, vegan food. Nourishment in all aspects of life starts on the inside! 🙂
- Laura S
Jeannie Cimino says
I am thriving forward by cutting down on my processed sugar, making hearty smoothies everyday, working out 3-5 times/week, drinking more water, and not eating after dinnertime!
Christinanne says
I'm thriving forward by drinking a green smoothie every morning
Guest says
I am thriving by starting a meditation practice.
Holly Buchanan says
I am thriving forward by eating more raw leafy greens and less sugar!!
Riley Hughes says
Thriving forward in 2013 by maximizing whole food intake and cutting back on added sugars
hanne says
stay positive!
megan says
in 2013 i am thriving forward by incorporating far more plant-based meals into my diet! my husband is an omnivore so it's difficult to imagine my household will ever be fully vegan, but i have made the commitment to control what *i* put in my body!
BarrAndTable says
I'm thriving forward by cutting out unnatural sugar from my diet. I've definitely noticed a difference in my cravings in just the past couple weeks!
Brittany GoVegan! says
I am thriving forward to be a better vegan. Sometimes I get so busy I eat lots of precooked vegan foods, faux meats, etc. I need to remember I am healthier and happier when I am cooking from scratch at home, and usually saving money too!
Kathy Patalsky says
yay 🙂 thanks!
Kathy Patalsky says
sounds like a super path! good luck to you!!
Kathy Patalsky says
awesome! good for you! 🙂
Jenny K says
I am THRIVE-ing forward by cutting out processed food from my diet
Jessica Sapoznick says
I'm thriving to be gentle! To myself, to my children, my husband, my friends, and everyone I meet.
ammauceri says
I'm thriving to try to be more grateful for all the wonderful people and experiences in my life!
Live Learn Eat says
I'm thriving forward by enjoying life more! Lle Schreiber on Rafflecopter
Stephanie Ann says
I am thriving forward by focusing on my health and focusing on me.
Cynthia says
I am thriving forward for 2013 by leaving the windows on my computer open to my favorite inspiring healthy & happy blogs to keep myself focused & excited about a life full of the good stuff & without all the bad stuff... and about all of these wonderful new foods that make me feel awesome just sitting there waiting for me to try.... & of course, I am going back to the gym after a couple years hiatus. Yay, 2013!!!!!
Veronica says
I am thriving forward in 2013 by using Thrive Forward's guidance and advice to create the combination of clean eating, exercise, and meditation that is right for ME.
foxymcgee says
I'm thriving forward by cutting out that late-night snacking and by *at the very least* going for a solid walk every night if I cannot do a full workout.
Katty Hoelck says
I am thriving, one year into being a raw VEGAN, by inspiring my Type 1 Diabetic fiance to convert to veganism to reduce his insulin dependancy. By doing so, we can be gentle on his organs and help him lead a fuller life-- giving my future husband a chance at a healthy late adulthood despite his condition! <3
Stephanie Littooy Watson says
I am thriving forward by not eating some form of ice cream every weekend. Too much sugar! This shake looks amazing!
Diane McMahon says
trying to eat more healthy for the New Year - trying to quit eating junk food
Guest says
I am thriving forward this year by eating more whole grains and getting back into shape.
Miranda Naylor says
DELICIOUS! Just looking at your pics, I could not resist making it asap! I'm a huge fan of Vega products as well. They're really the best tasting, most completely nutritious shakes. Thanks for all your amazing recipes!!
Raina Sayer says
In 2013, I am thriving forward and pursuing my dream of becoming a professional ballroom dancer. I'm a vegetarian and I found VEGA as my perfect exercise supplement!
Jasna says
I'm thriving by watching portion control and not eating because I'm bored.
dddd89 says
I am thriving forward by trying out new group exercise classes to motivate myself.
Angie says
Continuing to do what I do and loving it!
Natalie says
I am thriving forward by educating myself. I am always learning new things about diet and exercise and incorporate these new discoveries to get a better me!
Jamessina says
Yes! Thriving forward with juicing each day, did the blendergirl (modified) juice cleanse and back to training for four Civilian Military Combines this year!
kn422 says
I'm thriving forward by juicing at home to save money and hopefully getting my foot in the door towards a real career.
Kim Jamron says
I'm going to be reducing my dessert intake and drinking more juices
Genevieve Gamlin says
I'm thriving forward in 2013 by switching out my morning coffee for a green smoothie.
Kristian Godfrey says
I am thriving forward by ditching dairy.
Sophia Spizzzzzz says
im thriving forward by trying to eat less processed foods and eating more balanced (less refined carbs etc. more fruits veggies beans)
Jodie Layne says
Eating things that nourish AND delight my body, and finding meanigful ways to move my body.
Tara Benvin says
i'm thriving for a vacation!!!!! 🙂
Jenn M says
I'm thriving forward in 2013 by seeking support, rather than standing alone. Challenge group for working out and eating right.
Lucy Lopez says
I'm thriving for a healthier life.
Saussure says
Julie Bickham says
I'm cutting out unhealthly foods and cutting out sugars!!
bitt says
I want to drink more veggie juice.
Niki says
I am thriving by giving kale and other veggies I am not hugely fond of another try!
Caitlin @ Streets Ahead Style says
I am thriving forward by eating more whole foods (a la the thrive diet), being more optimistic and positive, and more active.
Capria Ammerman says
I'm thriving forward by continuing my journey to becoming a runner, losing the last bit of baby weight, and cleaning up how I eat to a healthier lifestyle.
AnxiousCat0410 says
im thriving by keeping mind over matter
Lisa Adams says
I'm going to keep coming back to Healthy Happy Life. I love learning about Thrive Forward and all of the healthy things you have shared with us here. I will also continue to run and enjoy life!!! Thanks.
Miranda says
I'll be drinking more water and incorporating more veggies into my diet!
Trezlen says
I'm thriving by adding regular exercise to my life, doing a green smoothie detox, and making a slow transition back to veganism.
Steel Springs says
I am focusing on giving my body the fuel it needs by eating a well-balanced diet, focusing on increasing healthy fats.
Anna says
I just joined Thrive Forward and am excited to start the program!
Jenna Z says
I'm thriving forward by getting a full 8 hours of sleep! I used to stay up and watch the weather on the 10 pm news, but now I just check the weather channel and then hop to bed!
Kristen N. says
I am thriving forward by eating more fruits and vegetables.
Terri Jones Cole says
I'm eating a clean, plant-based diet.
katheirne d says
i'm eating one smoothie everyday!
Maria Madrid Reed says
I'm thriving forward by a healthy plant based diet and running
Vegenista says
To thrive forward in 2013 I am committing to a 100% plant based diet, enjoying a daily green juice, deepening my yoga practice by participating in a 3 week immersion, making sure to get at least 30 minutes of heart rate elevating exercise per day, & focusing on living in the present moment. Happy New Year!
Melinda Parkhurst says
I'm adding fresh juices veg and fruits at least twice a day.
Kenna O'Rourke says
trying to eat more mindfully and write every day!
Elizabeth Schreiber says
I am thriving by focusing on healthy eating and positive thinking/energy!
Lindsey Treffry says
I am thriving forward by cutting out soda and by buying vegan items for their healthy ingredients, not just BECAUSE they're vegan.
Karyn Voelz says
I will thrive forward by continuing a plant based diet, and incorporating more ideas, recipes, and new foods into my diet, as well as my families.
ann chervin says
i will thrive by committing to a vegan lifestyle, sticking to my workout routine, and staying healthy and strong
Ttrockwood says
I will thrive by maintaining my healthy vegan lifestyle and incorporating more fresh veggie juices and raw foods and sharing the deliciousness with my omni friends
Julie says
I'm thriving forward by being more conscious of details!
KB says
I am thriving forward this year by taking all processed sugars out of my diet and trying to eat organic or plant based foods as frequently as possible.
Guest says
I'm thriving but cutting cane sugar out of my diet.
Teagan says
By training to shave 5 min off my 10K time, eating cleaner/"thrivey-er", and getting in the best mindspace possible before starting grad school!
Katie says
I will be able to do at least two unassisted pull ups this year!
Eeee says
I'm thriving to improve the world! I donated to the humane society. I am already vegan but am hoping to eat healthier and use less resources.
Janel M. says
We are moving to Maine for a fresh new start 🙂
Katherine Hemminger says
I'm thriving for a healthier life in general.
Austen Koecher says
I'm thriving by running three times a week and continuing my vegan diet.
Kayla says
I'm thriving by improving my intake of vegetables.
rachel says
By cooking healthier!
Emily says
I'm thriving by breathing more deeply and drinking more often (water that is :P)!
Elisha Pettit says
yay! excited! i love vega products ... sampled them at my local whole foods store and thought they were great!! ive been leaning toward vegan the past three months (dairy-free) and plan to "thrive forward" by including more clean foods in my families diet in 2013!
kaly barrett says
i'm thriving forward by attending an intensive program for my eating disorder WHILE finishing my last semester at school and maintaining a vegan diet. i'm doin' it for me this year! boom!
Caroline Warrington says
I'm thriving forward by sharing my healthy experiences and tips with my friends and followers!
apesa says
This looks amazing! I am thriving forward this year by trying to eat more clean foods and adding more variety to my exercise routine with fitness dance classes and running.
Heather McClees says
Love this giveaway!!! This is my favorite vegan company and protein powder! I entered all the ways possible! The French Vanilla Vega One ROCKS!:)
Meghan says
I would love to start doing CrossFit style workouts this year. I've kind of started on my own but I think I need to maybe join a CrossFit box to get started.
kristina says
I'm thriving forward by doing 9+1 for entry into the 2014 NYC Marathon.
Nicole says
I'm thriving forward by running my first marathon!
Cynthia Winter says
I'm striving forward by eating more veggies.
Robyn says
Trying to eat less processed foods.
Stephanie Wolfgang says
I'm seeking help for my eating disorder and making 2013 the year of joy. 🙂
Stephanie says
I'm thriving forward in 2013 with clean foods, green juice and more exercise!
Jenifer Reese says
I am thriving forward by cutting out processed foods and focusing on eating clean!
Greg Allbee says
I'm thriving by continuing my vegan diet. I think I've finally inspired my wife and parents to adopt a more plant-based diet as well, though not vegan (yet!)
Rheyn Williams says
No more throwing away precious produce! I'm grocery shopping more often, and in smaller quantities, determined not to let one leaf go to waste before I have a chance to cook it. 🙂
Adria Fink says
I am thriving forward by placing an emphasis on whole, raw foods, yoga and being positive in everything i do!
Arcelia Rael says
Thriving forward one day at a time! Slow and steady wins the race!
Alethea Copelas says
I am continuing on my vegetarian lifestyle and exercise regime. As a health coach, I am excited to share my enthusiasm about health and wellness with others!
Deborah Yoo says
I plan to incorporate more exercise and healthy eating (and do away with bad reality tv and junk food) in 2013 - that is my definition of "thriving forward"
Lauren says
I wish this was available for me!! I'm from Scotland but live in Cyprus....all the good stuff is always somewhere else lol!! Love Vega products too
Guest says
I'll be thriving forward by getting back to and sticking with an exercise program.
kllmaca says
I love the Vega One Chai flavor!
Ashley Elizabeth says
I am thriving forward by getting back in the kitchen and cooking more!
Faith says
I am thriving forward in 2013 by cooking more meals at home instead of dining out.
Mara says
I registered with Thrive Forward a few days ago and I can't wait for the unveiling tomorrow! I hope to learn many things to help me in the coming year (and onward).
Jillian says
I'm thriving forward by being a vegan, working at a food bank over spring break, and teaching spinning!
JennsAdventures says
I'm thriving forward in 2013 by writing everything down again! It really makes a difference when you put your thoughts and goals on paper in ink -- very accountable and motivating! 🙂
Jordan Dunne says
I'm thriving forward in 2013 by practicing yoga regularly and getting more sleep to restore my body and mind!
Amy says
I'm making resolutions with metrics I can track so I can hold myself accountable in 2013!
Frugal Vegan Mom says
Hubby and I have resolved to watch less tv and read more books together, to help our relationship thrive!
allie says
i'm thriving forward by juicing more often and drinking less alcohol.
Nicole Nolen says
I am 'thriving forward' in 2013 by joing in on Vega's Thrive Forward! I cannot wait to clean up this diet for good!
Beth Mickens says
Making a commitment to workout more and drink more smoothies!
kerry.ajohnson says
I'm thriving forward by eating a whole foods plant- based diet, and making an effort to exercise every day!
Brandi says
I'm thriving forward in 2013, by taking care of my health, body and mind, so that I may be an example to my 3 beautiful boys.
:) says
I am thriving forward by eating less animal products. I am a vegetarian but I would like to eat less animals products.
Molly says
I'm juicing at least 5 times a week!
Brittany says
I'm thriving forward this year by continuing to try make all my favorite foods healthier, using my Vitamix everyday, reducing my card intake and keeping up a steady workout routine.
Nicole Davidsohn says
How are you "thriving forward" for 2013? I'm drinking VegaOne daily for breakfast or dinner, drinking the Vega protein powder 1-3 hours after my intense workouts, and making sure to get a serving of AmazingGrass greens each night before bed. I'm working on my career as a Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist, as I save up to move to NYC and launch my career in the health and wellness sector. I've always lived in a town and never a big city, so I'm stoked to challenge myself to make it in NYC. I'm also doing the Thrive program and sharing it with all my clients!
Suzie says
I am thriving forward this year, 2013 by eating a whole food diet & cutting out all processed food! Along with regular exercising of course to stay healthy & feel good!
Shannon says
I'm thriving forward by removing processed sugar from my diet and remembering to take my vitamins!
Emily says
I'm thriving forward by starting this Thrive program tomorrow while also completing the Tone It Up Love Your Body Challenge!
Annie Hébert says
I'm thriving forward by trying to remove sugar in my diet ...
Kara says
I'm going to eat more veggies and less sugar!
Aimee Decaigny says
I start my day with lemon squeezed into warm water, then follow it with a green smoothie for breakfast. I already eat a vegan diet, but there's always room for more fruits and veggies so I'm going after them!
penny says
I'm making my go-to breakfast a colorful, fruit and veggie-filled smoothie! Good for my body and great for my mood! Starting the day with something that makes me healthy and happy is my good habit for 2013!
Mai says
i'm thriving forward by eating healthier and meditating.
Mike Bratek says
Going on a diet.
Vsl says
I am thriving forward by maintaining a vegan lifestyle and using my bike daily! 🙂
Tanya says
I'm thriving forward by returning to my daily workout plan and eating more raw foods.
Crystal Pak says
I want to live a happy life 🙂
Keira Hand says
i'm going to do only things that bring me joy
Hannah says
I'm thriving forward by increasing the amount of dark chocolate in my life.
maeve connor says
I'm thriving forward by replacing junky snacks with healthy ones!
mama2desi says
I am thriving forward by eating more sustainably and fresher foods...I am already Vegan, but need to color my life up a little more!
disqus_83h72iT6Zr says
I am focusing on clean eating in 2013
Taylor says
I'm thriving forward by cutting down on sweets!
Carrie says
I'm trying to add more raw foods to my diet, got a dehydrator for Christmas so that should help!
Kelly Stewart says
This looks super yummy! As to the how am I thriving, I'd say that I am changing my ways. I am not going to let myself get in my way and I am going to love myself!
The News Wheel says
I'm thriving forward by training for my first full marathon!
Dina Payne says
This looks so yummy! Cannot wait to make it! I also feel great about eating right and what it does for the environment, it is compassionate eating and it's good for me as well.
Crystal says
I'm weaning myself off coffee and energy drinks.
jessie says
i am thriving forward by kicking my fitness goals up a notch - attempting to qualify for the boston full and complete my first tough mudder - while continuously trying to improve my health and that of the planet through a plant-based diet.
Stephanie Stakes Barden says
I am thriving forward by tring to be healthy and help the planet to become healthier, by looking at the products I use and how the effect the bigger picture.
M.e. Matth says
In 2013, the goal is to decrease stress and sleep more to thrive forward!
J.c. Elfson says
I am thriving forward by moving on from vegetarianism to veganism
Stephanie Hindman says
My husband and I are thriving forward as Jan 1, 2013 is 1 year totally vegan!
disqus_fP6g5UURXZ says
Thriving forward with a vegan diet and helping friends do the same. Also adding more exercise to my schedule.
Sara Farr says
I'm eating more whole foods and exercising a lot more!
Treble Tart says
I am thriving forward by sharing my love of plant-based foods with everyone who will listen! And also, training for my first half-marathon!! 🙂
Courtney E. Howard says
I'm thriving forward in my diet (my tummy is not a tomb for animal carcasses) and exercise (moving much more).
Kayla McKain says
I am thriving forward by continuing to focus on perfecting my healthy lifestyle! My goal for 2013 is to cut out all artifical sweeteners!
cometgrrl says
thriving forward by training for the santa cruz 1/2 marathon in April!
Michaela Degenaro says
I'm thriving forward by my start of juicing and eating much healthier. I'm making healthy lifestyle my priority.
tanua says
thriving forward by increasing my mileage that I run and eating more kale
heatherblackmon says
This shake looks fantastic - sinfully good. 🙂 I'm thriving forward by focusing on balance, which means prioritizing and not overscheduling myself. Happy New Year!
Christie Campbell says
I am thriving forward by not letting my past get in my way. Each day is a new start and don't let gym slips and food slips prevent me from moving forward.
Nisha S. says
Thriving forward by letting my priorities shift throughout the year and not getting stressed about not doing everything 100%. If work and sleep are more important than a rigorous week of workouts or being creative with my weekday recipes from time to time (not ALL the time), so be it!
saniel says
eating a raw diet at least 4 times a week and exercising with my best friend my husband. thanks
Elizabeth Meyer-Shields says
Looking forward to continuing my plant-based lifestyle in 2013 - my main goal this year is fitness and weight loss.