Smoothies or Shakes? Here Are 8 Supplements to Spice Them Up!

Smoothies are a great way to start your day ahead. Packed with your daily servings of fruits/veggies, your breakfast smoothie is a great way to get much-needed nutrients that you might otherwise neglect during the rest of your busy day. Whether you are a smoothie veteran or you are new to the art of blending, here are some healthy ingredients to add to get even more out of your smoothies

Chia Seeds

Chia is an edible seed from the Salvia hispanica plant, which grows in Central America. The seeds were cultivated by the Aztecs and were a staple food for mesoamericans. Chia seeds are tiny, black and circular, but they are mighty. They are rich in potassium, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Their combined levels of protein, magnesium, and calcium help to satisfy cravings.

Smoothies with Chia Seeds
Photo by Madison Inouye

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria (alga) that grows in both fresh and saltwater. Spirulina was grown and eaten by the Aztecs and popularized again when NASA found that it could be grown in space for astronauts to use. A true super-food, this tiny organism is stocked with important nutrients like Vitamin B1, B2, and B3, copper, and iron. It also has plenty of protein and powerful antioxidants, keeping you full while promoting cell health!

Hemp Protein

Hemp protein powder is made by grinding hemp seeds into a fine powder. As in the name, this supplement is high in protein and a helpful vegan option for building muscle mass. Minimally processed and easy to digest, hemp powder contains all nine essential amino acids that humans must get from their food.

Matcha Powder

You’ve probably come across matcha at some point in your life. This very popular powder is popular for a reason. Matcha is packed with antioxidants called catechins that are linked to cell damage prevention and building the immune system. Catechins boost metabolism and increase the amount of calories burnt during exercise. Choose to add matcha to your smoothie after a difficult workout for faster recovery!

Matcha Powder Supplements
Photo by Ponyo Sakana

Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is exactly what it sounds like: beekeepers collect pollen from bees by brushing it off of their legs when they fly back into their hives. Bee pollen boosts liver health and strengthens the immune system. As a dietary supplement, Bee pollen is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E.

Acai Berries

Another very popular supplement, Acai berries offer a range of health benefits. These purple berries are rich in the antioxidant anthocyanin which reduce inflammation and promote brain health!

Cacao

Raw cacao was first used by the Maya in Central America. The powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat. Despite its use for chocolate and sweets, Cacao has been linked to many health benefits. It is rich in polyphenols, which reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. It’s important to note that many of these benefits present in raw cacao are subsequently reduced when the cacao is processed into chocolate.

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds are another huge protein source and are very high in fiber! They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and several vitamins and minerals: copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin b1. Flax is great for heart health.

Read on…

Women go through many changes throughout their lives and it is important to ensure that we treat our bodies well. Our bodies require a certain amount of nutrients to maintain good health and it is important to prioritize some of the most essential nutrients in a pool of many. Countless important nutrients are provided by our diet and other sources, but if it is not enough, supplements may be used to meet the daily recommended allowances of these nutrients.

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