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.
- Açaà 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!
Hey have you found any adverse reactions to chia seeds? I was absolutely loving them for the first 3 weeks, but the last couple of times I’ve had smoothies I’ve been really sick with sharp stomach pains… struggling to think of anything that is different in my diet other than the chia! x
Hey Rachel.
Thanks for the question, Rachel. Are you adding the recommended about to your smoothies? I would suggest stopping using Chia seeds and ask your healthcare provider if they believe Chia Seed could be causing your stomach pain.
Hope you feel better soon.
Hi I need the smoothies recipes for week one and two…I bought the ingredients but now the link is gone for the recipes
You can also by the Recipe Cards here: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/challenge
Hey Candice!
Email us here: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/contact and we can send them over to you.
hello. I am new to chia and hemp seeds. for breakfast, I usually make a smoothie with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, banana, and vanilla protein powder. all blended with unsweetened almond milk. would it be a good idea to replace the protein powder with chia and hemp seeds? this way I’m getting protein but not more than the body can digest in a single serving? thanks in advance!
Yes, that sounds like a good idea, and throw some leafy greens in there too, try 2 cups of spinach. 🙂
Can I live off of these green smoothies or are they just snacks… Or how do you eat/drink these?
Hey Trey!
Our smoothie recipes make about 4-5 cups (32oz – 40oz). Jadah drinks at least 2 cups (16 oz) everyday in the morning as a breakfast meal replacement. Jen drinks hers for lunch or sometimes as a mid morning snack Since green smoothies are full of fiber, they keep us both full for a while. If either of us needs afternoon pick-me-ups, we have been known to make another green smoothie later in the day instead of drinking a caffeinated beverage.
Hope that helps. 🙂
Hi there,
Can I use these together or am I taking the benefit away if I make a smoothie with Spirulina and Hemp Hearts?
Thanks.
Hey Trish!
Those are two great superfoods.It is important to find superfoods that enhance the flavor and consistency of your smoothies, and work with your mix, but just as important to incorporate the superfoods that give you the nutrients you are looking for. Protein, fiber, healthy fats and omega fatty acids is a great combination, just beware, spirulina can have strong flavor.
Hey Trish!
Superfoods and Leafy Greens go great together! 🙂
Hey Linda!
Unfortunately, we are not doctors or nutritionists. Each and every one of us is different, which makes it hard to say what is right for you. We suggest checking with your healthcare provider that knows you better. You are more than welcome to tweak any of our recipes to fit what you need.
Great article! I’m not a fan of coconut, but from what you said, I should be! If I use the oil, will it make my smoothies taste like coconut? Or can I use a small enough amount so it isn’t overwhelming, but still get the benefits?
Hey Jess!
Here is an article all about coconut oil:
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/coconut-oil-benefits
Hope that helps.
Thank you for the list of superfood! Now, I should be using one of these ingredients whenever I make a smoothie.
Enjoy!
I am really excited to get into this green smoothie challenge I don’t have a blendtec, it sounds like an awesome machine to own, reading all the posts everyone has put on this blog. I just wanted to know if I am able to use an ordinary blender I have a older type one I inherited from my friend. Are you able to tell me if this will be okay to use to make these green smoothies please.
Thanks and kind regards
Jennifer
Hey Jennifer!
YES, any blender will work! 🙂
Jen: For the past few years I have been using a Warner blender that I got for my wedding 8 years ago. It was a $70 blender that worked okay. It turned my produce into a smoothie, yet it left chunks of spinach and was very loud. It finally died and I immediately went online and bought a refurbished Vitamix 5200 for $329. It came within a week and blends like a beast — no spinach leaf is left unblended when this bad boy is done. It’s insane.
Jadah: I first started with my Magic Bullet (until I burned the motor out). Then I borrowed my in-laws Thermomix until I could get my hands on a high-speed blender. The Blendtec blender is my baby now. I just love the Blendtec’s sleek design, and the 94oz BPA-free jug is awesome when you are making big batches for your family or prepping for a detox cleanse.
Hope that helps. 🙂
Which of these is the best if I don’t eat a lot of protein. I am making a full recipe of the smoothies and drinking some for breakfast or lunch- and having the rest later in the day for a snack or dinner. It depends on what else I have eaten that day. But protein is a BIG issue for me- and I want to feel full after having the smoothie.
It is based on personal preference, Allison. They are all great! I enjoy avocados, coconut oil and chia seeds the best. Enjoy!
Hey, I had the same problem with the protein when I started but I add some greek yogurt and some flax seeds and the result is a smoothie with 34% protein (25g in a 6dl smoothie). I’m still looking for ways to improve it but it’s a start 😉
Hi, how do you feel about the use of bee pollen in the smoothies?
Its’s really a great and helpful piece of info. Very good post .Thanks for such an awesome post.
Best Weight loss smoothies is offer guidance of weight loss, it is given many types of methods and ideas to loss your weight & fats.
Sure can, Patricia!
Hi. Thank u so much for the reply and so quick!
Hi: So glad I found this. Do you suggest using 1 or 2 Superfoods in one smoothie? What about over the course of a day? How many should one use? And is a good idea to use a few over a period of time and then switch to different ones for another period? Thank You0.
Hi Jane!
We like to try to stick to one, maybe two, superfoods per green smoothie. Feel free to use them another time during the day if you’d like—totally up to you! It’s a good idea to have a variety of them instead of the same superfood over and over 🙂
Much of our health is determined by the way we live our lives, and nutrition choices are a huge part of that equation. Part
of the confusion about superfoods comes from the fact that they are often backed up by some legitimate scientific research; however, the
conclusions may be blown way out of proportion, becoming dubious claims eagerly
accepted as fact. When you give your body a daily dose of these
super foods it’s like renovating your body the way someone would
renovate an old house that has seen better days.