For fitness coach Naya Fields, breakfast needed to be fast, filling, and fuel her morning workouts.
But after realizing dairy was triggering her skin and digestion, she faced a challenge: how to make a protein-rich smoothie without the classic whey or Greek yogurt.
“At first, I tried just skipping protein,” she admits. “But I’d crash by 10 a.m.”
Determined, Naya began experimenting with dairy-free ingredients that could still pack a punch. She discovered pea protein and hemp seeds for the base, frozen bananas and oats for creaminess, and nut butters for extra staying power.
Almond milk, coconut water, and even brewed green tea became her liquid go-tos.
“The key is balance,” she says. “A good smoothie isn’t just about protein—it needs fiber, fat, and flavor too.”
Her favorite combo? Frozen blueberries, unsweetened almond milk, a scoop of vanilla plant-based protein, spinach, almond butter, and cinnamon.
“It tastes like a blueberry muffin and keeps me full for hours,” she laughs.
Now, Naya creates smoothie guides for her clients who are also dairy-free or lactose-intolerant. “You don’t have to sacrifice performance or pleasure,” she says. “You just have to mix smarter.”
