A delicious and nutritious drink in the morning can help your day go more smoothie-ly.
Smoothies, which you could add to your breakfast or drink as a snack can be a healthy part of your diet, especially when they are made with nutritious ingredients.
Smoothies are often made from fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats, like from avocados.
Registered dietician Chelsea Rae Bourgeois wrote an article for Health detailing all the superfoods you can add to your smoothie for an especially healthy blend.
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Goji berries
Putting this in your smoothie is a berry good idea.
First on her list are goji berries, which she said are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
Goji berries have zeaxanthin and beta-carotene, which are linked to having anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial effects.
The small red berries are also known for supporting immune function, eyesight, skin health and even mood.
Goji berries are also high in vitamin A. Just five tablespoons provide 250% of the daily required intake.
Hemp seeds
You may be planting a seed for your health with this superfood.
Hemp seeds are packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which help to fight inflammation.
Hemp seeds are also high in protein. Just three tbsp of hemp seeds provide people with 18% of their daily protein requirement. Hemp seeds are also a complete protein, meaning that they contain all nine essential amino acids. Protein is important for muscle health and both the protein and high fiber content in hemp seeds can make you feel fuller for longer.
Leafy greens
It won’t kale you to add this to your smoothie.
Leafy greens are high in vitamins like vitamin K, which is great for bone health.
Greens like kale, Swiss chard and spinach are also high in antioxidants which lower someone’s risk of developing a chronic disease.
Greens can be added to a smoothie with fruits to improve the taste, Bourgeois explained.
Almonds
You’d be nuts not to try this
Almonds are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They also contain plenty of healthy fat, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
The protein and healthy fat in almonds helps to keep you feeling full longer and also helps to balance your blood sugar.
Chia seeds
Ch-cha-cha chia!
Like hemp seeds, chia seeds may be small, but are packed with nutrients.
They have omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation, as well as protein, fiber and antioxidants.
Just one ounce of chia seeds gives you 35% of your required fiber intake.
Bourgeois says chia seeds go well with most smoothie ingredients and can also be used as a topping to a smoothie bowl.
Greek yogurt
If smoothies are all Greek to you, learning about these ingredients might help you better understand their health benefits.
Greek yogurt has plenty of protein and also has probiotics, which support digestion, mood and overall health.
Just 3/4 a cup of Greek yogurt has 15 grams of protein which is 30% of the daily value.
Greek yogurt goes great with fruit and adds a creamy texture to smoothies.
Avocado
If you’re in the pits, a nice avocado smoothie might help.
Avocados are rich in healthy fat, fiber and plant sterols. Plant sterols help gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular health and cognitive function.
One avocado also has 9% of the daily fiber requirement. Avocados give smoothies a creamy quality.
