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This is the superfoods list for the best superfoods for smoothies. They can give you whatever boost you need whether it be extra protein, healthy fat, energy, minerals and more. Superfoods for smoothies are nutritious ingredients you can toss in any smoothie recipe to supercharge it. Checkout this superfood smoothie for a great example of how to add them.
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.
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Top 10 Superfoods for Smoothies
Superfood is a buzzword that you’ve most likely heard, but may 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?
Yes! These 10 superfoods for smoothies are definitely worth the hype. This superfoods list gives you ten smoothie-boosting ideas, along with recipes to help you use them.
Smoothies are wonderful with just greens, fruit and water. If I need more energy, a quick full meal, an immune boost or better skin/nails/hair, I add superfoods to help me out.
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.
Fun fact: I love hemp, chia and flax so much that I used them exclusively in my own plant-based protein powder, homemade protein powder.
Superfoods Green Powder: Green Tea
I am def #teamcoffee all day every day, yet I also appreciate a good cup of green tea. It makes an excellent liquid base for smoothies. Naturally caffeinated green tea gives an energy boost without the coffee jitters.
- 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.
Green tea is fairly mild in flavor, so feel free to use it as a base on any smoothie you next create. Or bonus recipe, swap out your next coffee for a matcha tea latte.
Fermented Superfoods for Gut Health
I have a deep and lasting love for fermented food. I love pickling things, making and eating sauerkraut and brewing my own kombucha. Gut health is super important and is linked to mood and mental health, your immune system, skin and more. 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.
Fueling your body and gut with pre and probiotic foods can help keep your digestive system balanced. I actually have a whole challenge inside Rawk the Year (my meal planner) that teaches you how to make and use these three foods for the happiest gut around.
95% of the body’s serotonin production happens in the intestine. Your body will thank you for keeping your gut happy.
Power Berries
Next up on my superfoods list is power berries. Do you realize just how incredible berries are? They aren’t just here to be a sweet treat. These gorgeous fruits are great superfoods for smoothies since they act as fruit and a power boost.
- Wild blueberries (think tiny!) are higher in antioxidants. I love Wyman’s brand.
- Cranberries are a UTI-fighting, immune-boosting berry. Since they are really only found in winter, binge on them during this season!
- 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.
Obviously, there are dozens of berries not on this list that are also deliciously beneficial. Berries are an easy superfood win in a smoothie!
You can also make antioxidant smoothie cubes and toss them into your next smoothie for some extra antioxidant love.
Algae
Yeah, I’m talking about the stuff from the ocean. Hear me out! I didn’t add this category to my superfoods list for the shock factor. These ingredients pack some serious power and you should try them.
- 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. I get mine from Herbal Vineyards.
- 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. If you’re new to this unique ingredient then try some from Spirakind.
Algae is a unique ingredient and an acquired taste for many. Start with a small amount and work your way up to more depending on your taste preferences.
Cacao Powder and Cacao Nibs
Cacao powder and cacao nibs are seriously healthy and delicious. Unprocessed and unheated contain the most nutrients. Turn your next smoothie into a chocolatey drink by adding either of these ingredients to it and enjoy the flavor and the benefits.
- 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.
Toss 2-4 tablespoons of cacao powder or nibs in your next smoothie and enjoy a warm and rich chocolate shake! This superfood list can be equally tasty and beneficial, right?
Pro tip: Look for cacao or cocoa that is unsweetened. There’s no need for extra ingredients in the powder as you are adding them to a smoothie that is naturally sweetened.
Anti-Inflammatory Roots
If you struggle with inflammation then this section is for you! Chronic inflammatory diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Many Americans struggle with chronic inflammation, so chances are your body could benefit from greater consumption of natural inflammation-fighting food like fresh ginger and turmeric.
- 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.
Adding 1/2 to 1 inch of fresh ginger or turmeric is a great smoothie booster. Just make sure you peel and cut your turmeric on a cutting board because it stains easily!
Fresh Herbs
Herbs are my jam. They’re easy to add to smoothies and meals and make this superfoods list due to their nutrient-dense nutritional profiles.
- 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.
If you ever get the urge to start your own garden then I recommend starting with herbs! They are beautiful, easy to grow, can be grown in or outside and make it easy to grab and use in a variety of recipes. These superfoods boost smoothies quickly as well as add great flavor!
Feel free to experiment with the herbs in your garden or at your local farm stand. Surprise yourself with some fun combinations!
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.
- 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?)
- Ginseng root is an ancient root used in Chinese medicine for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cordyceps is a fungus that can help with oxygen efficiency while exercising as well as properties that are anti-aging and anti-tumor growth.
My friends at Four Sigmatic use the power of mushrooms in many of their delicious mixes to create coffee without crashing as well as beverages that heighten focus or help relax the body.
Immune-Boosting Superfoods
There are many supplements on the market today that promote an immunity boost. Yet I love getting the ultimate boost from natural ingredients, so here are my favorite ways to help my body stay healthy:
- 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.
Use any of these superfoods for smoothies to give your body the best nutrition this cold and flu season.
Superfood FAQs
Honestly, different superfoods have different super powers. Don’t just try one! My list includes seeds, green tea, fermented food, power berries, algae, cacao, anti-inflammatory roots, fresh herbs, adaptogens and immune boosting foods.
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.
A little goes a long way… I recommend adding 1 tablespoon of chia, flax, or hemp to 1 serving of smoothie. Most other superfood ingredients will recommend a serving size, so read the label! And you can always start out small then work your way up to a full serving.
Non-Smoothie Uses for Superfood
Superfoods make excellent smoothie ingredients plus, easily add them to a variety of dishes! Here are a few non-smoothie recipes using the ingredients listed above:
- Elderberry popsicles
- Herb pestos
- Ginger switchel
- Hemp heart sauce
- Pumpkin chia pudding
- Chia fresca
- Fudgy brownies
- Carrot ginger soup
What are your go-to superfoods to use in cooking, baking and smoothies? I’d love you to leave a comment and tell me what you love and how you use it!
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 🙂