Now that summer is almost upon us, (4 days and counting), it is time for daily smoothies and tons of sunshine. There’s nothing better than making a nutrient-rich, fruit and veggie-packed cold smoothie after a workout on a hot day. Even though healthy smoothies naturally contain so much nutritional goodness, there are so many healthy, natural, and delicious supplements that you can add to your daily smoothie that will definitely upgrade your smoothie game. Here are a few of my favorite supplements to add to my morning smoothies:
Spirulina
Spirulina is one of the most nutritious and popular supplements to add to smoothies. The ancient green powder is packed with vitamins and is a strong antioxidant. Spirulina has many health benefits such as managing cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, weight loss, boosting your metabolism and so much more.
Flax Seeds
Flax Seeds have always been used for their nutritious properties and have properly earned their place as a superfood. The small seeds are packed with omega 3, are extremely high in fiber, and have cancer-fighting properties that are thought to aid in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol.
Collagen
Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in your body that is found in your skin, muscles, and ligaments. It promotes elasticity in your skin, as well as promoting brain, heart and gut health. As we get older, our body produces less collagen, so in order to maintain glowing skin and elasticity, you should consider adding collagen to your daily routine.
Maca Powder
Maca is an ancient Peruvian root that is loaded with nutrients. Some of its many benefits include increasing libido, energy, and fertility. It also helps reduce blood pressure as well as menopause symptoms.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are similar to flax seeds. They are high in omega 3 fatty acids, which are the healthy kinds of fats that are important to incorporate into a daily diet. They are also a great form of calcium, iron, and fiber.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen works like an antioxidant, both relieving inflammation and boosting the immune system. This nutritional supplement is found on flowering plants, which is then produced by hardworking bees. Some of its other benefits include better liver health, less stress, and may alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Cacao Nibs
Cacao nibs are small crushed pieces of cacao that are packed with a ton of nutritional benefits. Unlike chocolate, cacao nibs tend to be bitter but still worth it for all its goodness. They are packed with antioxidants and have great anti-inflammatory properties!
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used for its medicinal healing properties. The powder is derived from a root found in Southeast Asia and has become very popular in the health industry. It has great anti-inflammatory properties and can work as an antioxidant. Start with small doses of turmeric, it can irritate your stomach if you take too much.
Wheat Grass
Wheatgrass has always been a very popular superfood in the health industry. You can liquify a small amount with water, drain it, and take it like a shot, or you can put the powdered wheatgrass right in your morning smoothie. The health benefits of wheatgrass seem never-ending, beginning with eliminating toxins in your body to improving memory and cognitive function.