My 6 Favourite Smoothie Additions
Maca Powder
Maca is one of my all time favourite super-foods. Maca is a root vegetable, that is known for it’s adaptogenic properties. What this means is that maca has the ability to help your body adapt to stressors both internally and externally! One thing maca is typically recognized for is it’s ability to help enhance and regulate the reproductive systems in both men and women. Not only does it help to increase libido, but fertility as well. It also happens to be incredibly high in antioxidants.
Some of my favourite brands to get maca powder for smoothies are GiddyYo and Root Alive!
Chia Seeds
If you don’t already put chia seeds in your smoothies on the daily, you should definitely start! These little seeds support healthy skin by providing antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and promoting continual waste elimination. It is because of these benefits that chia seeds are also very beneficial in regards to digestive health. The fact that chia seeds also have approximately 11g of fiber per ounce definitely adds value to them as well. Due to the fact that they contain such a high amount of fiber chia seeds can help to keep your bowels regular and consistent. This fiber also acts as a prebiotic, which feeds the good bacteria in your body promoting a healthier internal environment! Another fun fact, these seeds are pretty much tasteless so adding them to your smoothie won’t affect the flavour.
My favourite brands for chia seeds are typically Prana or Chosen Foods!
Greens
If you are an individual that struggles to incorporate vegetables into your diet daily this one simple way for you to do so! When you blend salad greens into your smoothies, the benefits of the greens do not change. What does change is the consistency the greens are now delivered in. Instead of a solid form, once greens are blended they become a gel-like substance. This sticky gel-like substance then helps to coat your digestive tract and allow other substance to move more easily through it. On top of this, the fiber within the greens is still present which allows accumulated waste to be pulled from your digestive tract.
My Favourites to add in are : spinach, kale, arugula and dandelion!
Plant-Based Protein Powders
One thing a lot of people fail to realize is that substances in liquid form are absorbed more quickly into your digestive system than solid foods are. With this in mind, smoothies can often spike your blood-sugar levels if protein and fats aren’t present. By simply adding a protein powder into your smoothies you can help to limit the chances of spiking your blood sugar and later on having a major crash. When protein is added in, everything is absorbed more slowly as protein is harder to break down. It is typically more beneficial to your overall digestion when your protein powder is plant-based vs animal-based as it is easier on your digestive tract and will limit your chances of bloating and constipation.
Some of my favourite brands for protein powders are : Amazing Grass, Arbonne (vanilla) and Iron Vegan.
Healthy Fats
We have all heard the term “healthy fats” at this point, but why add them to your smoothies? Fats add balance to your smoothie as they help to slow absorption of nutrients allowing for a gradual increase in energy. They also help to keep you satiated for longer periods of time! Healthy fats also contribute to better functionality within the skin membrane and help to lubricate your joints as well as they aid in decreasing inflammatory response.
My favourite way to add healthy fats to smoothies : Udo’s oil, coconut oil, flax/chia/hemp seeds!
Collagen Powder
Collagen powder is a flavour-less powder that you can add to your smoothies to make them super creamy/fluffy. On top of enhancing the consistency of your smoothie, it also brings many benefits to your body. Collagen is found in our skin, muscles, tendons, blood vessels and even our digestive system. Collagen is what gives our skin elasticity and strength, it is known for it’s benefits in regards to hair growth and strength . It can also help to repair the lining of your digestive tract, reduce the appearance of cellulite and strengthen your nails and teeth. I typically choose marine based collagen over bovine because it goes into your system easier!
My favourite collagen brands are : Vital Proteins and Sproos,