Smoothie

Calming Cinnamon Rice Protein Matcha Smoothie

This gentle, low-fat smoothie uses brown rice and plant-based protein to provide steady energy and satiety without triggering reflux, which is especially helpful when gastric emptying is slowed on GLP-1 medications. Mild cinnamon and matcha add warmth and focus without acidity, while banana and almond milk keep the texture soothing and easy to digest.

Prep time 10 min
Cook time 15 min
Total time 25 min
Servings 2
Difficulty easy
Per serving 87.2 cal ยท 1.8g protein

Ingredients

  • 120 g cooked brown rice โ€” cooled
  • 120 g ripe banana โ€” sliced
  • 350 ml unsweetened almond milk โ€” chilled
  • 40 g unflavoured plant protein powder โ€” ready to use
  • 2 g matcha powder โ€” sifted optional
  • 1 g ground cinnamon โ€” ready to use
  • 10 g maple syrup โ€” ready to use optional
  • 80 g ice cubes โ€” optional optional

Instructions

  1. If you do not have cooked brown rice ready, simmer 50 g dry brown rice in plenty of water until very soft, about 15โ€“20 minutes, drain, then cool completely before using 120 g for the smoothie.
  2. Add the cooled cooked brown rice, sliced banana, unsweetened almond milk and plant protein powder to a blender jug.
  3. Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and matcha powder, and add maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter, more soothing taste.
  4. Blend on low speed first to break down the rice, then increase to high and blend for 45โ€“60 seconds until completely smooth and creamy.
  5. Add ice cubes if you like a colder, slightly thicker smoothie, and blend again briefly until the ice is crushed and the texture is uniform.
  6. Taste and adjust with a splash more almond milk if too thick, then pour into two small glasses and sip slowly, staying upright for at least 30 minutes after drinking to reduce reflux.

Tips for GLP-1 users

Keep the smoothie on the slightly thinner side and drink it slowly; large, very thick portions can sit longer in the stomach and may worsen reflux on GLP-1 medications.

If you are very reflux-sensitive, start with half the matcha or omit it, and choose a protein powder without added sweeteners or flavours that could irritate your stomach.

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