Trainer-Approved Recipe: Protein Banana Bread

Mar 19, 2018

 

Food is fuel and what we eat determines how well our minds and bodies are able to function. Why not take our favorite dishes and look at the ingredients we can substitute to make a healthy alternative? Try this Protein Banana Bread recipe from North Ridge Personal Trainer Makaela Wood for a healthy take on this sweet treat!


Editor's Note:
This post is authored by O2 Personal Trainer Makaela Wood, a NASM-CPT and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Raleigh, N.C.

Protein Banana Bread

Growing up I always heard the phrase "you are what you eat" and as I got older, I started to realize just how much that phrase plays a role in not only our physical health, but our mental health as well.

 

My career in mental health and personal training has not only shown me the importance of physical fitness, but the importance of healthy eating and living a well-balanced life. As evidence continues to link food with diagnoses of depression and anxiety, it's important that we focus on the ingredients and nutrients we are putting in to our bodies on a daily basis.

 

For example, my all-time childhood favorite: BANANA BREAD. I always try to make a healthier version of my favorite dishes with ingredients that don’t include butter and sugar by adding things like yogurt and protein powder to increase the protein content. This Protein Banana Bread is extremely easy and doesn’t make a mess – it’s also husband and kid-approved, which is a plus in my book!

 

This makes for a great snack after the gym or if you are on-the-go due to its protein and carbohydrate content. The bananas are rich in potassium which plays a key role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction as well as heart functioning. The Greek yogurt and egg whites provide you with an ample amount of protein which your body uses to build and repair tissues. Lastly, the walnuts really tie the bread together and help to improve metabolism, reduce inflammation, and boost bone health.

 

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring and we don’t need to deprive ourselves of our favorite dishes (you will never see me give up pizza!) when there are so many healthy options and alternatives out there. Enjoy!

 

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RECIPE

2.5 Ripe Bananas
1 Cup of Oat Flour
2 TBS Coconut Flour
¾ Cup + 2 TBS Protein Powder (Whey is the easiest to bake with!)
1 Cup of 0% fat Plain Greek Yogurt
1/3 Cup of Egg Whites
Stevia to Taste
1 TSP of Baking Soda
1/3 TSP Salt
Walnuts + Chocolate Chips

 

 

 

INSTRUCTIONS

- Preheat oven to 375
- Mix all of the ingredients together except for the walnuts and chocolate chips (I do wet ingredients first and then dry)
- Add walnuts and chocolate chips to your liking
- Pour mixture in to a dish (I use a 5x9 loaf dish)
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a fork/toothpick comes out clean

*Makes about 10 servings*

 

Our personal trainers can design a specialized workout and nutrition plan to help you hit your wellness goals. Schedule your two free sessions today!

 



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