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Table of Contents
- What is a Superfood?
- Top 10 Superfoods List for Smoothies
- 1. Protein-Packed Seeds
- 2. Green Tea and Matcha
- 3. Fermented Veggies
- 4. Power-Bursting Berries
- 5. Nutrient-Rich Ocean Algae
- 6. Raw Unsweetened Cacao
- 7. Anti-Inflammatory Roots
- 8. Flavor-Packed Fresh Herbs
- 9. Stress-Busting Adaptogens
- 10. Immune-Boosting Superfoods
- Common Questions
Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack a nutritional punch into a delicious and convenient drink. But why settle for just fruits and veggies when you can elevate your smoothies with powerful superfoods? My Top 10 Superfoods List includes nutrient-dense ingredients with a range of health benefits, from boosting your energy to supporting your immune system.
What is a Superfood?
A superfood is defined as a food rich in nutrients and minerals commonly viewed as beneficial for one’s health. I don’t know about you but I’m all for eating foods that work extra hard to give my body what it needs to thrive.
Top 10 Superfoods List for Smoothies
Superfood is a buzzword that you’ve most likely heard, but not fully understand. It’s flashy, trendy and makes me feel healthier just buying them if I’m being honest. Yet are these foods really that super?
These 10 superfoods for smoothies are definitely worth the hype. The can give you powerful boost when it comes to extra protein, healthy fat, energy, minerals and more. The following superfoods list focus on boosters for smoothies that are nutritious ingredients you can toss in smoothies to supercharge it.
1. Protein-Packed Seeds
Seeds top my superfoods list for many reasons. These small but mighty warriors contain healthy fats, quality protein and fiber. Find superfood seeds at almost any American grocery store (Trader Joe’s, Target, even Marshalls!) as well as multiple places online. I pick up all three ingredients at my local Costco in bulk.
- Hemp hearts have no psychoactive properties yet do have gamma-linolenic acid, a great and necessary fatty acid.
- Chia seeds contain healthy fatty acids, which make them a powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial boost in any smoothie.
- Flaxseed provides the body with necessary fiber and healthy fats and makes my chocolate chip cookies freakin’ delicious with a crispy and chewy shell.
How to use: Add a tablespoon or two directly to your smoothie. Flax and chia seeds can also be soaked in water for a few minutes to create a gel-like consistency, adding extra thickness.
Protein-RIch Smoothies
2. Green Tea and Matcha
These affordable green teas are packed with antioxidants, particularly EGCG, which has been linked to improved metabolism, focus, and protection against chronic diseases. Matcha offers a more concentrated dose of nutrients as you consume the entire leaf.
- Green tea boosts the metabolism to help burn fat, contains polyphenols and antioxidants to fight cancer and inflammation as well as cell damage and helps the brain function more efficiently.
- Matcha is an earthy-tasting green tea powder that can lower your chances of chronic illness and boost your antioxidant levels.
How to use them: Start with ½ to 1 teaspoon of matcha or brewed and cooled green tea. Be mindful of the caffeine content, especially if you’re sensitive.
green Tea Smoothies
3. Fermented Veggies
Incorporating a small amount of fermented vegetables like sauerkraut or kimchi juice into your smoothie might sound unusual, but it’s a fantastic way to boost your gut health. They are rich in probiotics, which support a healthy microbiome, improve digestion, and even influence your mood. If your gut’s not healthy, ain’t nobody healthy.
- Kombucha is a tea-based beverage. When tea is fermented the polyphenols are multiplied which helps them fight even more inflammation. My favorite brand is Health-Ade!
- Yogurt that contains live bacteria, or probiotics, can give your immune system a boost. You can even make vegan yogurt with probiotics in it if dairy is something you try to avoid.
- Sauerkraut is basically fermented cabbage. It’s great for digestion and the reason it makes this superfood list is the probiotics found inside.
How to use them: Start with a tablespoon or two of the liquid from your fermented veggies. The tangy flavor can be surprisingly complementary to fruity smoothies.
Probiotic Smoothies
4. Power-Bursting Berries
Berries like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and goji berries are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They help protect your cells from damage, support brain health, and contribute to a healthy immune system.
- Wild blueberries (think tiny!) are higher in antioxidants.
- Pomegranate contains punicalagin that have triple the antioxidant power of red wine and green tea. If this fruit is a bit daunting to you then check out this video on the easiest way to remove pomegranate seeds.
- Açaí powder contains anthocyanin which can lower oxidative stress, inflammation and the risk of diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
- Cranberries are a UTI-fighting, immune-boosting berry. Since they are really only found in winter, binge on them during this season!
How to use them: Fresh or frozen berries work perfectly in smoothies. Experiment with different combinations for flavor variety.
You can also make antioxidant smoothie cubes and toss them into your next smoothie for some extra antioxidant love.
5. Nutrient-Rich Ocean Algae
Spirulina and chlorella are types of blue-green algae packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are known for their detoxifying properties, immune-boosting effects, and ability to support energy levels.
- Sea moss is a type of seaweed that can help the thyroid, heart, gut and fertility. Be sure to buy this ingredient from a reputable source since the nutritional profile can vary greatly from brand to brand.
- Spirulina is rich in both protein and antioxidants. It seems most food is super if it can fight inflammation, and spirulina is a part of that category.
How to use them: Start with ½ to 1 teaspoon of powdered algae. The flavor can be strong, so pair it with other flavorful ingredients like berries or cacao.
Algae Smoothies
6. Raw Unsweetened Cacao
Raw cacao powder is a rich source of antioxidants, magnesium, and iron. It offers a delicious chocolatey flavor without the added sugars and processed ingredients found in conventional chocolate. It can also boost your mood and energy levels.
- Cacao powder has large amounts of flavonols which are both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
- Cacao nibs = crushed cacao beans. They’ve got healthy fat, manganese and fiber and the same healthy properties as cacao powder.
How to use them: Look for cacao or cocoa that is unsweetened. Add a tablespoon or two to your smoothie for a decadent and healthy treat.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Roots
Turmeric and ginger are potent anti-inflammatory roots that can add a warm and spicy kick to your smoothies. They can help reduce inflammation, ease muscle soreness, and support digestion. Chronic inflammatory diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide—let’s change that!
- Ginger has been used in medicine for centuries. It feels a bit like a cure-all ingredient since it can help with nausea, inflammation, diabetes, cancer, blood sugar and more.
- Turmeric’s superpower comes from curcumin. This active ingredient in turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties. This is a fat-soluble compound, so make sure to pair it with healthy fats when consuming.
How to use them: Add a small piece of fresh turmeric or ginger, or use a ½ teaspoon of powdered versions. Pair them with fruits like mango or pineapple for a balanced flavor.
Anti-Inflammatory Smoothies
8. Flavor-Packed Fresh Herbs
Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs in your smoothies! Mint, parsley, cilantro, and basil can add a refreshing and unique flavor profile while providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Cilantro contains antioxidants that can help ease arthritis.
- Parsley has 383% of the recommended daily value of vitamin K which promotes bone health.
- Mint is a good source of vitamin A and can help your body rid itself of oxidative stress.
- Basil helps ease nausea, stress, cholesterol and dental decay.
How to use them: Add a small handful of fresh herbs to your blend. Start with milder herbs like mint and gradually experiment with others.
Herb-Infused Smoothies
9. Stress-Busting Adaptogens
Adaptogens have long been studied for their superfood powers. They make this superfoods list because you can easily add them to smoothies or other beverages to enjoy better focus, less stress and less fatigue. I only have one recipe that incorportates them currently, which is my Adrenal Fatigue Smoothie.
- Ashwagandha is found in India, Africa and the Middle East. It is a medicinal herb with potent anti-stress properties (who couldn’t use a little more zen in their lives?)
- Lions Mane is gaining popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly for cognitive function, mental health (anxiety and depression), and nerve regeneration. Research suggests it may also support immune function, reduce inflammation, promote gut and heart health, and help control blood sugar.
- Cordyceps is a fungus that can help with oxygen efficiency while exercising as well as properties that are anti-aging and anti-tumor growth.
How to use them: Start with ½ to 1 teaspoon of powdered adaptogens. Research the specific benefits of each adaptogen to choose the best one for your needs.
10. Immune-Boosting Superfoods
Adding ingredients packed with vitamin C and other immune-supporting nutrients to your smoothie can help strengthen your body’s natural defenses. Here’s my favorite superfoods to add to smoothies:
- Elderberry has been used for centuries by people throughout North America, Europe, northern Africa and parts of Asia to relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling. This isn’t a new remedy. Raw elderberries are poisonous, so make sure they‘re properly cooked before consuming.
- Goji berries are a superfood used in ancient medicine all over Tibet, India, Mongolia, and regions of China. They contain polyphenols which stimulate the detoxification of blood, and also the elimination of carcinogens in the body.
- Oranges are loaded with fiber, vitamin C, thiamine, folate and antioxidants.
Herb-Infused Smoothies
Common Questions
While the term “superfood” is more of a marketing term than a strict scientific classification, it refers to nutrient-dense foods that offer exceptional health benefits. Therefore, there isn’t one single food that holds the title of the “#1 superfood.” Instead of focusing on a single “number one,” it’s more beneficial to think about incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods into your diet. Different superfoods offer different combinations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds.
You can add many superfoods to almost any smoothie, no need for a special shake! Yet start with these recipes: honey turmeric smoothie, yogurt smoothie, probiotic smoothie, sauerkraut juice smoothie, cilantro smoothie, chocolate protein shake, orange superfood smoothie.
To add superfoods to your smoothie, start with your liquid and fruit/vegetable base, then incorporate your chosen superfoods based on their form: add powders (like matcha or cacao) and seeds (chia, flax, hemp) directly to the blender, using recommended serving sizes and adjusting to taste; for fresh ingredients like ginger, turmeric, or herbs, wash and chop them before blending; and for fermented veggies, use a small amount of the liquid. Blend everything thoroughly until smooth, then taste and adjust sweetness, consistency, and flavor as needed, remembering to introduce new superfoods gradually and combine flavors thoughtfully for the best results.
Ultimately, the “best” superfood list for you depends on your individual dietary needs and health goals. A diverse diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, including a variety of so-called “superfoods,” is the most effective way to optimize your health.
should my daughter use these super foods while pregnant?
Hi Mary,
Thanks for reaching out! We’re green smoothie lovin’ rawkstars all right, but we’re not doctors or nutritionists. Especially because every pregnancy is different, we suggest your daughter double check with her doctor before adding new ingredients or recipes to her diet.
Do check out our post on pregnancy + green smoothies below…
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/smoothie-pregnancy
Cheers to health + happiness!
Do you Melt the Coconut oil in the microwave before adding it to the blender?
Hi Heather,
YES! The secret to adding coconut oil to your green smoothie without chunks is to melt your coconut oil (not hot), just melted. Then once you’ve blended your entire smoothie, set your blender to its lowest setting and slowly pour in the melted coconut oil. This will ensure the oil fully incorporates into your smoothie.
Cheers!
I really like your website. One item you mention is using flaxseeds in your smoothie whole and if you look up information on them, they need to be grounded to get the benefit unlike chia seeds which can be eaten whole. You may know this but it’s not how it comes across in your article. I believe a lot oof people don’t realize this and they are put in foods anyways. They act as an insoluble fiber then and don’t have all the other health benefits as ground do.
Thanks
Hi Terry,
Thanks for reaching out! You’re right, ground flaxseed will provide your body with more nutrients, as whole flaxseed may pass through your intestine undigested, which means you won’t get all the benefits.
Cheers.
Can you ladies add these superfoods to your recipies for the remaining smoothie challenge this month? It’s hard for beginners to know which ones taste well together, how much, and honestly I’ll just forget if they’re not on the list.
Hi Rachel!
Thanks so much for reaching out. One of our goals for the 30-Day Challenge is to show people that making green smoothies can be super easy and affordable. Consequently, we don’t include super foods in our 30-Day Challenge recipes at this time :). This blog post may help in terms of how much of each superfood to add to your smoothie:
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/meal-replacement-smoothie
For ones that aren’t listed (like flax seed or acai), I typically go with the 4 tablespoon rule for a 2-serving smoothie. Hope that helps :). Cheers!
Where can I buy powder with all those ingredients combined?
Hi Terry,
Looking for a superfood powder? Check out MNOS, it was suggested to us by Simple Green Smoothies’ grandmother. The same person that first introduced her to green smoothies!
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/
Cheers!
Hello Terry,
Want to buy superfood powder at cheap price? Then visit the site Here you get all the superfoods at wholesale prices as well as they also offer private label service and white label service for your company.
Nice article…But i have one question. Can we eat spirulina, quinoa, wheatgrass?
Hi Chris,
Of course! All three are rawkin’ superfoods to fuel your body!
Just a quick question. Do the green superfood powders that contain these ingredients as good as seeking them out individually?
Hi Lenah,
Great question! We prefer to fuel our bodies with whole ingredients with as little processing as possible, but superfood powders can be a great option when looking to boost your green smoothie with major vitamins + health benefits. Just keep an eye on the ingredients to ensure the superfood powder you’re reaching for is free of added sugar, gross artificial flavors, or minimal nutrients.
You may be interested in checking out MNOS. It was suggested to us by Simple Green Smoothies’ grandmother who first introduced her to green smoothies…
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/
This is a great, informative article. I am just returning to making smoothies as I forgot how great I feel after them.
I am wondering if, while using these three staple seeds, I could skip using protein powders? Please advise.
Thanks for the great information.
Karolina
Hi Karolka,
Thanks for reaching out! We’re so excited to hear you found our post on superfoods helpful. Looking to decide how much protein to add to your green smoothie? When adding chia seeds you’ll be fueling your body with a great protein boost, we suggest adding 4 tbs to any recipe, which is two servings. Curious if you should still add protein powder when using chia seeds? It’s all about knowing your body. If you’re super active, your body may need an additional boost, otherwise you should be good to go! Make sure and listen to what your body is saying.
When adding flaxseeds, you’ll be fueling your body with healthy fats, so adding protein powder is a great option.
Hope this helps!
Hello,
I am trying to jump-start myself back in a green smoothie routine. I noticed in an earlier comment you said it is not good to mix all the powders together to keep them separate.
I was wondering if it is acceptable/healthy to buy a smoothie powder that has all of the super-food ingredients (spirulina, chia seed, etc.) in one that I can just add to my smoothies and get all of the nutrients I need?
And, if so, what is a good organic/all-natural powder that I can buy?
Thank you!!
Jackie
Hi Jackie,
Great question! When fueling your body, variety is always a great idea! It ensures you’re body is receiving a wide range of nutrients.
There are some great products out there that combine several superfoods for a super simple way to add a major nutrient boost to your green smoothies. If you’re interested in trying a superfood powder, check out MNOS, it was suggested to us by Simple Green Smoothies’ grandmother, who first introduced Jadah to green smoothies…
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/
What about smoothies to fight off stomach bugs? Also, what are the best breakfast smoothies?
Hi Sacia,
Thanks for reaching out! Looking to keep stomach bugs at bay? Try our Immunity Booster Green Smoothie recipe here…
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/immune-system-booster
Any of our recipes is perfect for breakfast! Using your green smoothie as a breakfast meal replacement? We suggest adding protein + healthy fats to ensure you’re fueling your body with a complete meal. Learn more about our favorite meal replacement booster combos here…
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/meal-replacement-smoothie
Hope this helps!
Can coconut oil be added to every smoothie?
Hi Nadine,
Of course! Coconut oil is a rawkin’ source of healthy fats + the perfect addition to your daily green smoothie!
What about old fashioned oats in smoothies, do they have to be cooked first? Can they be added to all smoothies for more fulling smoothies.
Hi Nadine,
You can definitely add oats to your green smoothie! They’re a great source of protein + help keep your blood sugar stable! They’re also great because you can blend them dry, soaked, or cooked! Cooking your oats prior to blending will create the creamiest green smoothie, while dry is the most convenient but you’ll find the most grit. It’s all about finding what works for you!
Cheers!
Great article. I’ve been doing your April 30 day challenge. I am happy to say my cabinets are stocked with 6 of the 10 already. I will be making sure I have all 10 by this weekend. I love your smoothies, I am using the super foods in my smoothies everyday because I am doing meal replacements for breakfast and lunch and have so much more energy and alertness. I don’t wake up tired anymore. Today, I just purchased the 7 day thrive program as I am very interested in the tumeric tonic and of course more awesome smoothie recipes. I have shared your facebook page and website with my friends and family members. Rawk on \m/
Hi Laurie,
YAY! We’re so excited to hear you’re rawkin’ the April 30-Day Green Smoothie Challenge and hope you love Thrive as much as we do!! Thanks for blendin’ with us + for sharing the green smoothie love with others!
It should be noted to flax seeds should NOT be taken while pregnant, though chia seeds are perfectly safe. Flax has been shown to induce labor.
Hi Rebecca,
Thank you so much for taking the time to reach out + share your concern. As everyone’s body + pregnancy is different, we definitely suggest reaching out to your obgyn prior to adding any new ingredients to your diet!
I have found the information you provide to be very helpful and it is my hope that you can provide a little more information regarding these Super Foods. Although Super Foods seem to be mentioned everywhere these days, I am unable to locate any definitive explanation as to how much of a particular Super Food I should consume in a given amount of time, or whether it should be consumed with other foods or not, and a serving size, as is located on the package, doesn’t provide any clues. Should Super Foods be rotated like leafy greens to avoid a toxicity issue or are they safe to eat every day? And, if they should be rotated are there family groups that these Super Foods belong in? How do we navigate through these Super Foods to use them properly and get the most benefit from them?
I like Thomas’ questions. Where can I find answers?
Melissa
Hi Thomas and Melissa,
That’s a great question! With any great food it’s always a good idea to rotate so your body is continually getting a variety of nutrients and vitamins. You may be interested in checking out this article from the mayo clinic that talks about other super foods and how to add them to your body…
Hey,
Could you please tell me, to get the best benefits do you have to soak chia seeds before use or can you blend them into things as they come?
Thanks
Hi Vicky,
Great question! It’s all about finding what works for you! Chia seeds are great in that you can add them to your green smoothie in several different ways and still receive their maximum health benefits. Some great options are soaking your chia seeds, blending in, mixing in, or my personal favorite…sprinkling on top for a little added crunch!
Cheers 🙂