New Obsession: Moon Juice’s Adaptogen Protein Powders

Moon Juice founder Amanda Chantal Bacon chats with us about her latest creation and shares three exclusive recipes to kickstart your day.

As the founder of Moon Juice, Amanda Chantal Bacon has long been ahead of the wellness curve, bringing immune-boosting reishi mushrooms, raw foods and Sex Dust into the mainstream with the opening of her Moon Juice apothecary in Venice, CA in 2011. Now she’s launching another sure-to-be-cult classic: Adaptogenic Protein powders. While adaptogens have become a trendy buzzword, Bacon realized early on how the herbs could calm the body, focus the mind and ward off the negative effects of stress. Here, the tuned-in entrepreneur shares her inspiration and some tasty recipes that optimize the benefits of these magical powders.

Tell us about your new Adaptogenic Proteins. What was the inspiration? 

“Protein is the building block to every cell in our bodies. It supports the immune system, hair, skin, nails, muscle repair, and much more. I wanted super clean and delicious plant proteins enhanced with adaptogens to boost and balance energy by managing stress.”

And for the uninitiated, what exactly are adaptogens?

“Adaptogens are superherbs and mushrooms that expand the body’s capacity to handle stress, whether the source is mental, physical or emotional. That’s why we call them super. Chronic stress impacts everything from our energy, to our sleep, skin, and libido. These potent allies work by helping regulate cortisol (the stress-hormone) and balancing the stress response system to improve mood, boost immunity, reduce fatigue, and so much more. They saved my life.”

You have three flavors for the powders. What does each one do?

“We are fanatic about sourcing, so you can actually taste the potency of our herbs. Each ingredient has its own flavor profile, so we formulated based on flavor and benefit. Deep Chocolate Adaptogenic Protein includes maca, shatavari, and ashwagandha for lifting mood, so these ingredients pair perfectly with cacao. Vanilla Mushroom Adaptogenic Protein is a more neutral base, and full of brain food so it works well with coffee. Blue Beauty Adaptogenic Protein has ingredients for skin, to help protect natural collagen, and turns everything a gorgeous blue. I love it straight with coconut butter for the extra skin-supporting healthy fats.”

How often do you recommend adding these powders to your diet? 

“I think we evolve our habits by listening to our bodies, what’s happening in our day and what we need to support it. Adding protein to coffee is an amazing way to boost a daily ritual. All three of our Adaptogenic Proteins help battle stress-related weight gain, when cravings hit late afternoon. Beat the crash without reaching for sugar by blending Adaptogenic Protein with milk or water for a nutrient dense, energy boost. Get creative.”

Here, Amanda share three favorite recipes infused with her protein powders.

Super Sex

Serves 1

“This recipe is rich, smoky and delicious. I love Deep Chocolate Adaptogenic Protein and Sex Dust to feed a good mood and increase drive. Adding tocotrienols makes this recipe even creamier, plus it’s a bio-available source of vitamin E and antioxidants to feed your skin.” 

1 tsp Sex Dust 
2 tbsp Deep Chocolate Adaptogenic Protein
3 tbsp tocotrienols 
8 ounces hot water

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high.

Protein Yogo Bowl

Serves 1

“Combining yogurt and Adaptogenic Protein is an easy way to double protein intake, while boosting brain power. This is great for breakfast or to beat cravings without reaching for sugar. Plus the addition of bee pollen adds protein, subtle sweetness and a chewy texture.”

1 cup greek or coconut yogurt
2 tbsp Vanilla Mushroom Adaptogenic Protein
1 tbsp bee pollen (optional)

Combine yogurt and protein in a bowl and stir until the protein is well incorporated. Top off with bee pollen.

Green Protein Perfecta

Serves 1

“This is an energizing breakfast or snack to feed your beauty. The antioxidants in spinach are skin protective, and it’s an easy way to get a dose of fresh greens. Plus, I love the beautiful green color.”

1 banana
1 cup spinach
2 tbsp Blue Beauty Adaptogenic Protein
12 ounces water
4 tbsp tocos (optional)
 
Put all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until well combined.