Do you love making a smoothie in the morning or after a workout? Try adding one a couple of these healthy ingredients to your next smoothie.
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I am a sucker for a tasty smoothie after a workout. They’re easy on my stomach and I almost instantly feel my energy replenishing. Not to mention, they can be pretty delicious.
When I first started making healthy smoothies on a regular basis, I used the standard ingredients. A milk base, some protein powder, some spinach, and a banana. Occasionally, I would change it up and add a scoop of cocoa powder or some greek yogurt.
But, over the years I have grown to be pretty adventurous with my smoothies. You can literally tailor them to your needs. And you can change it up as often as you like.
If you are getting bored with your current smoothie routine or want to add a healthy boost, try adding some of these healthy ingredients to your next smoothie. Many of them can be found at a local grocer, but you can also order them online through Amazon.
Disclaminer: If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medication, please consult with your doctor before adding in any new boosting ingredients to your smoothie.
7 Boosting Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie
Smoothies are fairly simple, and it’s rare that one goes extremely wrong. Like the time I put a whole kiwi with the skin on in my spinach and bok choy smoothie. That was a no go.
However, with the addition of a few small ingredients, you can boost the health benefits of your smoothie.
1). Milled Flaxseed
Flaxseeds have long been known for their health benefits. But, a lot of people skip them because they are super crunchy, kind of sharp, and don’t look all that appetizing.
Bring forth milled flaxseed. It’s super easy to add a tablespoon of this healthy staple to your next smoothie. They can be added to just about any smoothie because they have a very subtle nutty flavor.
I love the Manitoba brand and trust them with a number of my healthy food additives. But, I also found one that’s a little cheaper and locally sourced, so don’t forget to check your local health foods store.
Benefits of Flaxseeds
- Loaded with nutrients including protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B1, Folate, Calcium, Iron and more. See the complete list here.
- Rich in ALA which prevents cholesterol from building up in the blood
- They have 800x the amount of lignans than other plant foods. Lignans can help prevent cancer.
- They are jam-packed full of fiber.
- Reduced blood sugar levels
2). Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds offer many of the same health benefits as flaxseeds. But these tasty little ingredients are a perfect addition to your morning smoothie. They have a nutty flavor and can even be toasted and sprinkled on top of oatmeal, toast, or a salad.
Blended into smoothies, a small portion of these packs a big punch. In just one tablespoon there are 3g of protein.
Again, my favorite brand of Hemp Seeds if from Manitoba Harvest.
Benefits of Hemp Seeds
- They have more protein than both flax and chia seeds per serving.
- Hemp seeds improve the quality of your hair, skin, and nails. They make your skin clearer and softer and promote hair and nail growth.
- They are known to improve sleep quality
- Rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Iron, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, and Zinc.
- Helps keep you fuller longer with a high fiber content
3). Turmeric
Turmeric has, in recent years started being worshipped by the health community. And they’re not wrong to do so. Turmeric is an excellent supplement for those with chronic pain as it has impressive anti-inflammatory properites.
Now, the turn off with turmeric is definitely the flavor. It’s quite bitter and some people say it is peppery. It doesn’t go well in a banana peanut butter smoothie. Don’t try it. Instead, go for a zesty smoothie with carrots, ginger, pineapple, cinnamon, or berries.
Try this recipe for Berry Turmeric Smoothie if you don’t know where to start.
Benefits of Turmeric
- The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin which is what gives it the amazing anti-inflammatory properties it has.
- It can neutralize free radicals because it is rich in antioxidants.
- Curcumin can help prevent heart disease and even reverse the heart disease process.
- It is a natural antidepressant due to its ability to boost levels of BDNF, a protein in the brain.
- May help clear up skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
4).Fenugreek
Many women are looking for natural foods to help them lose weight and boost their metabolism. Fenugreek, normally used to season savory foods like meats, is an excellent ingredient that may help curb your appetite and ultimately lose weight.
Fenugreek has a lightly sweet and nutty flavor profile that many people associate with maple.
Grab some Fenugreek seeds on Amazon.
Fun fact: if you are nursing, drinking fenugreek tea daily can help increase breast milk production.
Benefits of Fenugreek
- Increases carb tolerance and can lower blood sugar levels.
- Appetite control.
- It has similar effects to antacids and can reduce heartburn dramatically.
- Contains biotin, Vitamin A, B vitamins, Vitamin D, fiber, and iron.
- It can help ease the pain if you have painful menstruation.
5). Raw Maca Powder
Maca powder is a rather new and notable newcomer to the health community. But it’s growing in popularity quickly.
Maca is a part of the cruciferous family, like cabbage, broccoli, kale, bok choy, and brussel sprouts. And like it’s relative it’s low in calories but high in nutritional value.
Maca powder is sometimes described as having a caramel-like flavor. However, many people think it’s earthy and not so appealing. But, don’t let that stop you from adding this healthy ingredient to your next smoothie.
Maca can easily pair with chocolate and peanut butter as well as berry smoothies.
Benefits of Maca Powder
- Almost instant recognizable increase in energy.
- In men, it can increase libido. Overall, it is said to increase fertility.
- Its brain-boosting effects include enhancing awareness and memory
- Jam-packed with B vitamins, Vitamin C, Zinc, amino acids, and Calcium.
- Reduces stress by lowering the impact of cortisol on the adrenal glands.
6). Raw, Virgin Coconut Oil
While I was trying new recipes, I came across a smoothie recipe that called for raw, virgin coconut oil. Initially, I was appalled. But you only need to use a very small amount, and it has a major benefit in smoothies.
You are making a smoothie and trying to get the most bang for your buck, nutritionwise. It can be difficult for the body to absorb all of the healthy nutrients without some healthy fats. That’s where coconut oil comes in.
However, you can also include chia seeds, coconut milk, or another healthy fat in place of oil.
Benefits of Raw, Virgin Coconut Oil
- A moderate increase in good cholesterol which can help prevent heart disease and lower blood pressure.
- Lowers blood sugar and can help fight obesity and diabetes.
- Increases energy.
- Reduces appetite and can aid in weight loss by promoting fat burning.
7). Fresh Ginger
Ginger is one of those flavors most people either love or hate. But, either way, you should consider adding some freshly grated ginger to your smoothies.
Ginger has weight loss and digestion benefits as well as amazing anti-inflammatory properties.
It goes really well with mango, pineapple, and other citrus smoothies. One of my favorite tropical smoothies is this Tropical Turmeric + Ginger Smoothie.
Benefits of Ginger
- Improves digestion and can prevent or relieve constipation.
- It lowers blood pressure by expanding blood vessels.
- Reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pre-inflammation proteins.
- Can reduce the pain from menstrual cramps.
- Suppresses appetite and can aid in weight loss.
Which of these healthy ingredients are you most excited to try in your next smoothie? Let me know in the comments below.
