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“Can we talk about how you can sip your skincare and fuel your muscles, all in one matcha cup?” asks Sara Tendulkar in her recent Instagram upload. Blending ingredients into a jar with ice cubes, the youth icon shared her recipe for a matcha protein smoothie, sharing the ingredients in the caption below:
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“Over 30g of protein, with matcha and skincare benefits? Sounds like a dream to meeee🤭
🌰1-2 pitted dates
💪🏻1 scoop vanilla protein
💧1 scoop collagen peptides
🍵1 tsp matcha powder
🥛1 cup unsweetened almond milk
🥄1-2 tbsp unsweetened almond butter
🧊 Ice ice baby
& it tastes like a hug from a Japanese café💚✨”
What are the benefits of this drink?
Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at The Cleft & Craniofacial Centre, Sree Balaji Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, told indianexpress.com that Sara Tendulkar’s matcha protein smoothie is a well-balanced beverage made with vanilla protein powder, collagen peptides, matcha powder, almond milk, almond butter, pitted dates, and ice. It offers a blend of macronutrients and bioactive compounds that support muscle recovery, skin health, and sustained energy.
Protein
According to her, one of the standout features of this smoothie is its high protein content. “With the inclusion of both protein powder and collagen peptides, it provides over 30 grams of protein per serving. This makes it suitable as a post-workout option or a convenient high-protein snack during the day,” she said. Adequate protein intake is essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting metabolism, and promoting satiety, which can help in managing body weight and preventing overeating.
Matcha is rich in antioxidants (Source: Freepik)
Collagen
The presence of collagen peptides also contributes to the smoothie’s skin-supportive benefits. “Collagen is the body’s primary structural protein, and supplementation has been associated with improved skin elasticity and hydration, particularly in individuals with aging or dry skin,” she said.
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Matcha
When paired with matcha, which is rich in antioxidants such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the drink may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, offering additional support for skin health and overall cellular protection. Matcha provides a mild caffeine boost that is balanced by L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes a state of calm alertness. This makes the smoothie an ideal choice for individuals looking for a gentle energy lift without the jitteriness or crash often associated with coffee. The cognitive benefits of this combination are particularly useful for enhancing focus and productivity during the day.
Dates
Pitted dates serve as a natural sweetener while contributing dietary fibre, potassium, and trace minerals like iron. These nutrients play a role in energy metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and digestive health. Unlike refined sugar, dates offer a more stable release of energy and contribute to the nutritional value of the drink.
Almond Butter
Almond butter enhances the texture and richness of the smoothie while supplying healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. These nutrients support cardiovascular health, skin repair, and neurological function. The use of unsweetened almond milk as a base makes the drink dairy-free and suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a plant-forward lifestyle. Almond milk is also typically fortified with calcium and vitamin D, contributing to bone health.
Deepalakshmi said that Tendulkar’s smoothie offers a well-rounded mix of protein, healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants, making it a functional beverage that supports multiple aspects of health. “It is a convenient and nutrient-dense option that fits into a wide range of dietary routines, especially for individuals prioritising fitness, skin health, and clean energy,” she said, adding that The ingredients can be adjusted based on individual needs, making it a versatile addition to any wellness-focused diet.
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