Superfood Smoothie Add-Ins

By Kate Wilke | June 20, 2015

When it comes to a filling smoothie, sometimes fruit and juice simply don’t cut it. Smoothies are a great on-the-go breakfast or snack that can give you plenty of nutrients, vitamins, and protein. In order to make something that gives you lasting energy and fills you up, we’ve listed some of our favorite superfood add-ins.

Spirulina

This natural algae powder is high in protein, antioxidants, B vitamins, and essential amino acids. Spirulina’s high iron content makes it great for vegetarians, who are usually lacking the essential nutrient. Spirulina is known for its anti-inflammatory properties as well, which help with joint pain and injuries. Be sure to choose a spirulina powder that is organic in order to prevent any unnecessary additives.

Wheatgrass

With vitamin A, C, and E, iron, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids, this add-in packs in a lot for being the volume of a shot. Wheatgrass produces plenty of hemoglobin, which is the chemical in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This chemical helps to heal wounds and prevents bacterial infections—great for any extreme adventure! Wheatgrass helps detox by removing toxins from the liver and blood. While there is not enough research to back this up, it is popular to consume wheatgrass on an empty stomach to reap the most benefits.

Hemp seeds

Full of protein, omega fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals, hemp seeds are a great add-in for any meal. Hemp seeds carry all of the essential amino acids, and they are especially high in magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium. With five grams of protein per serving, this vegetarian add-in makes for a great post-workout smoothie. Hemp plants are one of the most eco-friendly and usable plant sources in the world.

Chia seeds

“Chia” is the ancient Mayan word for “strength,” and they will live up to this name due to their high content of fiber and protein, providing all-day energy. Two tablespoons of chia seeds are packed with eleven grams of fiber and four grams of protein. These seeds provide an enormous amount of calcium, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus as well. This low-carb add-in happens to be very high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.

Protein powder

Protein powder is a common add-in for a quick supply of much-need replenishment after a tough workout. It can be difficult to choose a protein powder that isn’t packed with unfamiliar ingredients and added sugar. You’ll want to find a natural protein that doesn’t go overboard on carbs or fat either. Look for an organic plant protein powder if you are looking for something as natural as possible, but still high in protein.

Bee pollen

Haven’t heard of bee pollen? You’ll want to try this next time you’re at the store because it contains all of the essential components of life. It is made of forty percent protein, and it packs in a high amount of amino acids, vitamins, folic acid, and the essential B-complex. Bee pollen is known for improving endurance and vitality, while also helping with food cravings and addictions. According to Mercola, The British Sports Council found an increase in strength by forty to fifty percent in those taking bee pollen. This is good news for anyone who is strength training.

Greens

The best greens to add to your smoothie include kale, spinach, parsley, cucumber, celery, and basil. Kale will fuel you with antioxidants, vitamins, the B-complex, and electrolytes, like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Parsley is high in iron, and vitamins A, K, and C. Cucumber will help hydrate you, as well as provide a high dose of vitamin A and K. Both celery and basil are powerful plants, providing vitamins C, K, B6, and B2, and electrolytes like calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Basil is also high in phosphorus and iron.

Ginger

This herb is helpful in healing any kind of stomach issue. It can also provide relief from muscle soreness, coughing, chest pain, and lower back pain. Ginger is composed of chemicals that reduce nausea and inflammation to give it these characteristics.

Honey

Honey is anti-inflammatory, making it great for healing the symptoms of seasonal allergies, and of course, honey is the famous cure to coughing. Honey has about seventeen grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon, which makes it a great source of natural energy. This add-in also happens to be a natural antibiotic whether taken internally or externally, which means it is great for wounds or burns.