My 6 Favorite Smoothie Boosters

These are some of my personal favorite smoothie boosters that will increase the nutritional value of your smoothies!

1. Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds offer 10 grams of plant protein per 2-3 tbsp. and contain omega-3s and 6s, which work to fight inflammation and protect your immune system. With such high levels of omega-3 and 6 essential fatty acids, these seeds help support health cholesterol levels and may help to regulate metabolism. They also contain iron, vitamin E, manganese, magnesium, B-vitamins, and zinc. Hemp seeds’ nutty flavor and nutrient profile makes them a great substitute for the nutritional benefits found in meat products and dairy products.

2. Flax Seeds

Did you know that flax seeds are one of the oldest crops in the world? Flax seeds provide 6-9 grams of fiber per 2-3 tbsp. and aid in digestion support and work to lower blood pressure. Most Americans are deficient in fiber so this is another great option to add to your meals. I use 1 tbsp. in most of my smoothies! In addition to fiber, flax seeds also provide significant amounts of magnesium and choline, which is important for strong bones, building DNA, and helping the body’s cells communicate with eat other.

3. Chia Seeds

Native to Medico and Guatemala, these seeds have a long history with the ancient Aztec and Mesoamerican cultures. Today, chia seeds are produced in many different countries, including the Unites States. They are widely recognized for being an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Chia seeds contain a little bit of everything; fiber, antioxidants like caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, protein, and omega-3s. The antioxidants found in chia seeds help fight free radicals in your body, otherwise known as the things that cause oxidative stress and cell damage to your body. In addition, to their dense profile in antioxidants, chia seeds are also high in fiber. The fiber content in the chia seeds may work to improve blood sugar levels, which will reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. We also know that fiber increases fullness. Well, the soluble fiber in the seeds absorbs water, which will make the seeds expand in your stomach to work towards that fullness feeling.

4. Cacao

One of the BRAIN POWER foods. This is what chocolate starts out as before it’s processed and mixed with added sugars and other ingredients. Cacao is filled with polyphenols, which help with blood flow to the brain as well as improving brain function. Cacao also contains magnesium, which can help reduce stress and aid in muscle recovery! This is a perfect topping for a peanut butter-based smoothie!

5. Avocado

Avocados are full of AMAZING healthy fats and they make your smoothies so creamy and delicious. They offer nearly 20 vitamins and minerals! In 100 grams of avocado, you are fueling your body with monounsaturated fat (“good fat”) potassium, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The nutrients in avocados can help maintain healthy digestion, blood pressure, heart, and vision. If you ever make a smoothie and it turns out with less thick consistency, try added in a little bit of avocado and blend it up.

6. Spinach

Spinach is a great leafy green vegetable to add to your diet and to your smoothies. 100 grams of spinach contains about 25% of daily intake of iron. Spinach does not have a very strong flavor, so adding it to smoothies will provide a ton of nutrients. It is rich in several minerals that your body needs to function, including potassium, lutein, vitamin K, vitamin A, iron, vitamin C, and folate. Spinach is also full of fiber. Blend fresh of frozen spinach with strawberries, pineapple, banana, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds for a sweet smoothie! I typically keep 1 bag of frozen spinach in my freezer.

What do you add to your smoothies? Which ones are your favorites from the list above?