A few weeks ago, I was sent the new Kashi bars as well as CalNaturale Svelte to review. I was very interested in the Svelte, which is a line of pre-mixed protein drinks. After trying all flavors, chocolate, vanilla, cappuccino, and spiced chai, I am really impressed! I have a high standard when it comes to protein drinks and shakes. Taste is a big factor along with a non-gritty texture. But I also want high quality ingredients with absolutely no fillers or weird preservatives. Here is what I love about the Svelte line of drinks.
- Organic soy milk
- Low Glycemic index with 9 grams of sugar (3-4 of those are from the soy milk)
- Smooth texture
- 16 g of protein. That is a lot!
- Easy to digest
- Rich in fiber through Inulin, a pre-biotic to increase calcium and magnesium absorption
- Non-chemical taste
As many of you know, I go to CrossFit class most mornings of the week. Because I get up very early, I can’t eat solid food. It just makes me very queasy. A couple of years ago, someone passed along the recipe to a wonderful pre-workout shake and that is my go-to drink every morning. And many mornings, I was a little late to CF class because I was late making my shake. Svelte was PERFECT for those mornings when I was rushing around. I drank half before class and the rest within 30 minutes of finishing the workout.
My favorite is the chocolate. Cappuccino is a very close second. I think the spiced chai was better suited as a meal replacement during the day and not before a hectic class. I loved the taste, don’t get me wrong. I had it one lazy morning around 8am and it was just what I wanted. And the vanilla tastes like ice cream. I tried 3 of them before my morning class and all 3 really fueled me for my workouts, did not drastically raise my blood sugar, and provided enough post-recovery nutrition to last until lunch time.
I loved this product and I want to thank CalNaturale for sharing these with me! I’ve already ordered more of the chocolate and cappuccino. These will travel with us to Colorado and I *might* just leave the blender at home.
You can purchase these directly from CalNaturale. I also saw them at Whole Foods. For an organic, low glycemic, high protein source of nutrition, Svelte certainly delivers.
And don’t let the quotes on the carton go by unnoticed 😉