This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
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.
Hi there lovely people!!!
First of all I want to share that you guys are doing an amazing job!
The 30 days green smoothie project is very healthy, educational, challenging, a very inspiring distraction for me from the 9am to 6am challenge I face from Monday to Friday ;-), interesting,… and all that FOR FREE, brilliant…
I can`t wait for the challenge to start :-). I had a few questions;
I was thinking about substituting a daily meal with a simple green smoothie and wanted to ask you what you could recommend to add (and in which quantities) to the already existing ingredients to transform it into a healthy delicious meal.
Or do the ingredients of the simple green smoothie already consist of a good meal?
A healthy cheers to the green smoothie project and thank you for this fascinating site and challenge!
Hey Lotte.
Thanks for reaching out to us + blending with us!! 🙂 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. If you would like, you can replace 1 or 2 meals with green smoothies. If you drink green smoothies as meal replacements, make sure to add a protein boost (plant-based protein powder, nut milk, nut butter), or snack on some nuts or a hard-boiled egg 30-60 minutes after you drink your green smoothie. Here is a link to our favorite plant based proteins. https://simplegreensmoothies.com/plant-based-protein-powder
Hello,
I’m going to the store to buy things you guys suggested for the green smoothies. I’m totally scared of the taste but I’m a new diabetic so I’m glad to make healthy changes.
Hi Shadeema.
Thank for reaching out to us. 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 and the natural sugars are okay for their eating plan. Here is a link to our favorite low sugar fruits.
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/low-sugar-fruits
In regards to Super Foods, I have some ground LSA (Linseed, Sunflower & Almonds) is this ok to use in my Green Smoothies, if so how much should I use for a single serve Smoothie? Thanks
Hi Helen. I would suggesting using the recommended serving size in 16oz as a meal replacement. 🙂
am I supposed to soak the chia seeds before adding? I saw you talk somewhere about it making the smoothie creamy, or using it in place of bananas? Please clarify 🙂
Yes, you can soak chia seeds before. 🙂 It will become a gel like consistency.
I have purchasing different super foods one at a time to add to my smoothies because they can be expensive if you buy them all at once. Was very excited to buy some goji berries and use them in my daily smoothie. But they taste awful. They are bitter, not sweet at all. Do you think I got a bad batch? Hate that I wasted my money. Almost bought cacoa nibs and now I wish I had.
Hey Sally.
Thanks for the comment. Goji berries should be semi sweet, but not sweet like a dried blueberry. If you have a Whole Foods near you, ask if you can sample in their bulk section to compare what you bought.
If in doubt call the number on the back on your bag and speak with them. Healthy food isn’t always the cheapest on the wallet. Best wishes.
I would love to try one of the superfoods like, coconut oil, flax seed or spirulina. Do I add these before or after blending?
Hi LeTreay!
You can add them to your blender or top your green smoothie with them. Things like flax, chia taste great on top of your smoothie but also great blended. 🙂
You are more that welcome to use whatever you would like. 🙂 Our ideas are suggestions. 🙂
Jen and Jadah!! I love your website, it is so helpful and I am obsessed with green smoothies and all your guidance, tips, and recipes! I cannot wait to incorporate some of these awesome super foods into my morning smoothies.
Just one thing….
“And because they are all natural that means they are coming from hard working farmers who take care of their crops and the earth in sustainable ways.”
HOLD UP. That is not what that means.
When food companies market food as “all natural” that only means they are created from natural ingredients. However, these ingredients may still be extremely processed and unhealthy (i.e. all natural potato chips). “All natural” foods are not necessarily organic or GMO free and it definitely does NOT mean that they are sustainably farmed or that the farmers are being paid a fair wage.
Just want to make sure everyone has got their terminology down so we can all make educated and healthy choices, green smoothies and beyond!
Hey Melissa.
Thanks for clarifying that. 🙂 Cheers.
Quick question…I purchased some coconut oil, chia and flax seeds. If I want to add one to a smoothie recipe, how much should I add?
Thanks!
Hi Sally,
A couple tablespoons is great! I would switch things up a bit to see if you like the taste of all of them together. I personally use 2 tbl coconut oil and then swap in chia seeds one day and hemp hearts another. But just see what you like and try to rotate if it starts to taste a little funky. 🙂
Looking forward to starting the challenge in January, I have read all your info pages and a lot of comments but still have two questions.
1. Do the smoothies in the challenge include recipes that have each of the superfoods, herbs, liquid bases and greens you have mentioned? So newbies know what the best combinations?
2. I would like to know if you use aloe vera gel from the plant as an ingredient at all? I’ve seen a few other sites & videos use it and recommend it as a superfood but its not here in your list here. Why not?
Thanks!
Hi Vanessa.
Our recipes for the January Challenge will look like this:
Pineapple Upside Down Cake | serves two
Ingredients
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cups almond milk, unsweetened
1 cup pineapple
1 cup cherries, pitted*
1 banana
*Other fruit can be used, such as berries.
directions
1. Blend spinach and almond milk until smooth.
2. Add remaining ingredients, and blend until smooth. Enjoy!
*Use at least one frozen fruit to make smoothie cold.
If you are drinking green smoothies as a meal replacement we suggest adding a protein to your smoothie.
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/plant-based-protein-powder
Feel free to mix and match the superfoods and proteins as you wish.
You are more than welcome to use aloe vera. We only promote items we personally use, so that is why you don’t see if on here, but if that is something you would enjoy, go for it. 🙂
Thanks for your reply Jessie. What I would like to know is do you guide us as to which of these superfood could be added to which smoothie as a suggestion. I imagine not everything combines well for ideal taste or texture with every smoothie. Also to start with a couple that combine well whichwould you rrecommend?
Very interesting reading here. It’s given me some hope. My son has never really learned to chew lumps and hates the feeling in his mouth. He has been on powdered milk formulas, such as Endure, since birth. He has acute rheumatoid arthritis and is mentally challenged. He is 17 and 152cm tall and weighs 38kg. I want to take him off powdered milk products. He will drink almost anything. What can you suggest? I want him to have a good liquid diet of protein and carbs. Thanks in advance. 🙂
Hi Sue.
Thanks for reaching out to us. 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 best for your son. Here are three links about liquids, healthy fats and proteins we personally enjoy that could possible help on your switch from powdered milk formulas.
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/dairy-free-smoothies
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/healthy-fats
https://simplegreensmoothies.com/plant-based-protein-powder
Great job you hit all points and combined it into an amazing program. I am presently traveling but Am tempted to buy your program.
I am presently having some intestinal challenges. I need more fiber in my diet. Any suggestions?
Hey Sue.
Thanks for the comment. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, swiss chard are all great sources of fiber. 🙂
Which ones would you recommend to help with tiredness and energy?
Great article btw!
Hi Neil.
Try adding Cacao Powder and Nibs, it always gives my husband a boost of energy. 🙂
Thanks for all the great recipes. I can’t wait to try them. I am about to receive a Ninja with Auto IQ and am so excited to start making green smoothies. I have a few of the superfoods already in my home. I have some frozen fruit as well. I was also happy to see the pre-prep how to page on here. I really wanted to comment about how many people are taking your super healthy recipes and ideas and wanting to go way over board with them. I have doing some research regarding smoothies and their benefits as well as looking at the best blenders. Mine will be a Christmas present from my son. He is super awesome. Anyway, the article was dead on when it mentioned how people tend to take something good and immediately start finding ways to make it bad. Replacing all meals with smoothies is not a good idea and could turn toxic. We are designed to chew our food and should. There are many sources of information regarding the value of eating vegetarian as well as the danger of going completely raw. So many of your commentors fall in the “lets take this way too far” category. I’m sad for them. I am looking for a healthier lifestyle, maybe because I’m older. I have liked veggies for most, not all, of my adult life. (junk food junkie) I am overweight, tired, can’t focus, depressed, etc.etc… I am looking forward to making healthy smoothies and I will be visiting here often for tips and recipes. I need to know how to store the extra serving, and for how long, different flavor ideas, pre-prep ideas and so on. I will also try to take the 30 day challenge. Thank you for creating such an informative site! BTW, I have made a few smoothies but my current blender is of the cheap, low wattage kind and you more or less have to chew them. LOL.
Hi Sheila.
Thanks for reaching out to us. We love hearing from our community. We are super excited that you are receiving a new blender for Christmas! That’s awesome, what a great son! 🙂 Answers for your questions: Some people say you have to drink it “right away” to get the optimal nutrients from each blend. But if left in the fridge over-night for one to three days, the taste and satisfaction is still there. You also may add a small amount of lemon juice to preserve and keep the smoothie blend as fresh as possible. Your body is still reaping the benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables even if it is not consumed right away. Also if you would like to prep ahead, here are our tips. 🙂 https://simplegreensmoothies.com/frozen-smoothie-packs
Cheers + Happy Blendin’!
10 points for the pronunciation of Acai!! Very funny
Super helpful post. Now I know how much to add and what they are good for. Thanks!!
🙂 Cheer, Vivi. Enjoy your Acai! 🙂
Hey!
How many of these super foods is ok to use in one smoothie? If I want to use all of these, what would be the best way to do it? The chia is already a staple in my smoothies, now I’m going to start adding the coconut oil, is adding a third one every once in a while too much?
Hey Alex.
We would suggest listening to you body, if two is going great, then try three if you would like. It is up to you! 🙂 Cheers!