A Pro Marathoner Shares Her Go-To Power Smoothie

When we sat down with Neely Spence Gracey last week at the Adidas UltraBoostX launch, we had so many questions running through our heads — she's a professional marathon runner, was Team USA's top placer at the 2013 IAAF World Cross Country Championships, and was the top American finisher in the 2016 Boston Marathon (and the only American in the top 10). She's fast, she's strong, and she's built for endurance . . . goals!

So how does a strong, speedy endurance athlete fuel herself? "With a sweet blend of flavors that satisfy the recovery hormones and taste buds at the same time!" We chatted with Neely about how to recover after a run and the best way to get nutrients in your body. Oftentimes after a long run, your appetite is suppressed, and she's been in that position many times. "Sometimes after I run I don't feel like eating a full meal right away," Neely told POPSUGAR. "Having a smoothie is so perfect if you feel like you can't eat; you get in what [nutrients] you need, but it's not as difficult to digest."

She told us, "This post-run smoothie is one that I love to drink after a workout — it's a fun twist on Fall flavors." And if you're someone who loves those comforting cold-weather flavors year round, then this recipe is definitely for you. Packed with protein and natural sweetness, this is sure to satisfy (and if you're looking for a vegan version, we've got you covered).

Sweet Potato Pie Protein Smoothie

From Neely Spence Gracey

Notes

You can cook a large sweet potato and then remove the skin and freeze the potato in an ice cube tray to prep for multiple future smoothies.

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup cooked sweet potatoes
   1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
   6 ice cubes
   1 scoop protein powder (Neely uses OSMO Honey Spice Protein Powder)
   1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
   1/2 teaspoon ground ginger spice
   1/4 cup water or milk of your choice
   Stevia or sweetener to taste

Directions

1. Blend all ingredients and top with candied pecans, dried coconut, cacao nibs, granola, etc.

Information

Category

Drinks, Smoothies

Cuisine

North American

Yield

1

Total Time

4 minutes, 59 seconds

Nutrition

Calories per serving

304