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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!
I’m just starting on the green smoothies since they removed my thyroid due to papillary thyroid carcinoma and still have to go into radiation anyways I want to eat healthier I’m scared of gaining weight or going hypo..do I have to add Chia, coconut oil and all the other things at the same time and what about the flax seeds it’s not the same as Chia seeds?
Thanks for the comment, Bellanira. You have come to the right place we are all about making healthy lifestyle choices. 🙂 Since we are not doctors or nutritionists, we suggest that any member of community with health concerns to speak to their healthcare provider to confirm that green smoothies are for them. Please add 1 serving of 1 superfood to any smoothie. 🙂 Please do not add all of them at one time. 🙂 Cheers.
Great list but I have a substitution recommendation! Acai is from the rainforest, but a berry called Aronia (aka Black Chokeberry) is native to the US, and usually grown as an ornamental hedge. This berry hasmore antioxidants and anthocyanins than its tropical friend, easy to grow, and the leaves give a beautiful red color to the garden in fall. Dont have a yard? Go out and urban forage, or pick then up at the health food store 🙂 Environmentally better as well.
Hey Natalia.
Thanks for the comment and for the suggestion. I haven’t heard of Aronia before, I will have to check it out. 🙂
Where do you find these items?
I know where to get the chia seeds, flax seeds, avocado, and coconut oil, but where do you find the other items?
Hi Autumn. Thanks for reaching out to us. Please click on the green link after each Superfood that states ” Buy Acai Powder” or “Buy Camu powder.”
I have a question about chia seeds-I have been putting 1-2 tablespoons of it in my smoothies and blending them in-is it healthier to just sprinkle them on top and consume them whole, rather than blending them?
Hey Virginia.
Either way works. 🙂 It is based on your personally preference.
FYI – goji berries are a nightshade food — for those allergic to nightshade family they cause achy joints.
Thanks for the tip.
I love your site!! I use it often and am so impressed how you sincerely response to each post. Keep up the great work!! One thing that would be helpful is to the site is have a search button on the page. Sometimes I have a fruit or veggie or something I want to put into a shake and wish I could type in the name of it and the recipes with that item would come up. Just an idea!! 🙂
Great idea, Emily! We are working on a search and ‘on hand’ section to better serve our community! Thanks for bring this up! 🙂 Happy Friday!
For cacao I use Crio Bru! It’s basically nibs, but ground more finely so you can brew it into a drink first and then you can throw the brewed grounds into a smoothie and get the rest of the nutrients. It’s so perfect.
Great tips, Seth! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Do y’all use just one of the ten or use more than ones? I want to try some, but don’t know which to add!
Hey Emily.
Try using 1 at a time, then once you have tried a few you can mix and match. 🙂
just wanted to say thank you for the article it helped me a lot to understand the benefits and also to start using them, i signed up for the 30 day green smoothie challenge already and im looking forward to see the benefits of switching to a better life style!
Thanks, Gladys! 🙂 Happy to have you apart of our community!
I am able to go to the bathroom but I have no energy yet but I have bean only take it for two and half weeks
Hi Janet.
What’s great about green smoothies is they are packed with leafy greens and fruits, which means they’re high in fiber and will help move things a long in your body. You have to also watch what you’re putting in your body too. Drink lots of water, avoid processed and fried foods, and always check with your doctor if you need medical advice. Everybody is so different. How many times a day are you drink green smoothies and what amount? This is not a fast or a restrictive diet, so you can eat regular meals during this challenge. We are making healthy lifestyle changes that will last a lifetime! Our goal for you is to drink at least one 2-cup serving green smoothie a day in addition to your regular diet.
I have been doing green smoothies since April.2013.
I have a vitamix. What do u think of adding these to the green smoothies.
Sweetleaf,sweeter.
I also use alond milk.1/2c. and I blast I use 1 scoop of Green max powder .
Also, I Have Hempseed. and i was thinking,instead of useing whey, i like to try o use my Hemp seed and make it into a powder and have that in place of whey[Wish i love.
How much should i use? 1 scoop like i use whey just seems it would be alot and cals. to high.
Right now the whey i use is 1scoop for 90cals. and it is ny Swansons.
Any tips.
Hi Janet.
Thanks for the questions. We do not add any sweeter into our smoothies, the fruit is sweet enough for us.
Hemp Hearts may look little, but they contain 10 grams of plant-based protein and 10 grams of omegas per 30 gram serving.
How much avocado should I put into my smoothie each day for the most benefits ?
Hey Susan.
Great question. You can start with 1/4 of an avocado or you can try this recipe, The Spa Cleanser Smoothie: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/how-to-get-clear-skin which calls for a whole avocado. 🙂
Can I use all of these products once a day in my shakes ?
Or should I use 2 per day to cover all ten for the week ?
Hey Susan.
Thanks for the questions. We do not suggest you putting all of the 10 super foods in your smoothies in one day. If you are new to super foods, pick 1 or 2 to start with. Test them out, do you like them blended or sprinkled on top? Then try another one. They will change the taste and consistencies, it is better to do one at a time so you know which ones you enjoy the best. 🙂
Hi!
Do yall include all of these superfoods in your smoothies at once or would that be overload!!
Hey Caroline.
Thanks for the question. Not all at once. 🙂 We like 1 or maybe 2. 🙂
I have just given myself a push and started a new healthy lifestyle and have been looking for some healthy ingredients to put inside my smoothie recipes. your article has helped a lot.
Thanks Pat 🙂
Hey Patricia!
Glad you are joining us! Are you signed up for our 30-Day Green Smoothie Challenge? If not, here is the link: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/challenge
Hello, I usually make a smoothies with superfood green powder, strawberries, banana , pineapple, super cocao, super maca cinnamon, honey, coffee,soy milk, chin seed, joji berries. I use all together it’s too much for me or not I just 1 cup every morning and if I drink a smoothies I have to do an exercise or not.
Hi Pat.
Thanks for the comment. We try to keep our smoothies simple, here is a link to how we like to create our recipes: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/how-to-make-a-smoothie