A daily smoothie is a wonderful way to get in a ton of nutrients in one easy and delicious meal, whether you are a smoothie newbie or have been using the blender a few times. They are perfect as a breakfast supplement, nutritious snack throughout the day or post-workout beverage to stay hydrated, energised and enjoy more fruits and veggies in your diet.
A great way to increase the nutrient density in your smoothies is to include superfood boosters with their bunch of essential vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants and healthy fats. Not sure which superfoods you can add to your smoothies for an extra boost? Here are a few ideas for beneficial add-ins to your daily smoothie combos.
1. Ginger
Ginger root might be the ultimate immune-boosting and upset stomach remedy, but it also can help your weight loss efforts due to its soothing effects. Adding fresh ginger into your smoothie will give your drink a spicy kick, mask any bitter greens and help your body digest the foods better.
Also, ginger possesses powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels, protect against osteoarthritis and treat chronic indigestion.
2. Matcha Powder
Matcha provides a boost of natural energy from caffeine in the composition and a sense of focused calmness due to the amino acid L-theanine. Matcha is also rich in catechins, antioxidants that have been shown to help reduce cell damage, prevent chronic disease and even fight against cancer.
Additionally, matcha is virtually calorie-free, might promote weight loss, lower cholesterol levels and strengthen your bones. Raw matcha powder may have a slightly bitter taste but will add a beautiful, bright green colour to your smoothies.
3. CBD Oil
CBD (short for cannabidiol) is an active, chemical compound derived from Cannabis sativa plants. CBD oil is loaded with an impressive number of nutrients, minerals and vitamins that contribute to a complete and healthy diet and allows the body to function optimally.
What’s more, CBD is thought to provide various health benefits through interaction with the cell-signalling endocannabinoid system (ECS) responsible for vital processes occurring in the body. Positive impact on ECS can help to bring balance to the body and mind, which results in decreased anxiety and pain levels, more focused and calm mind, a strong immune system, better mood and increased energy, among other useful effects.
Just include a few drops of CBD oil into your smoothie or experience the benefits of cannabidiol by trying out CBD drinks, water, energy shots or even infused protein powder as a part of your daily beverage. To find the best CBD products, please visit Alphagreen.
4. Turmeric
Mostly due to the active compound curcumin, turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to diminish the damaging effects of free radicals. Also, it has the ability to reduce the impact of numerous molecular targets that contribute to inflammation. Thus, turmeric therapeutic properties could help reduce the effects of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Curcumin also has shown significant antiviral activity in scientific studies that were researching dengue and Hepatitis C virus. This means turmeric can offer a certain measure of protection against many viruses that infect humans.
Curcumin can also be used for its neuroprotective properties. Neurons in your brain can multiply and form new connections. One of the main drivers of the process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) hormone, which is a growth hormone that affects the brain. Most brain disorders have been linked with decreased levels of BDNF, including Alzheimer’s disease and depression. Several studies found that curcumin can improve brain levels of BDNF. The action is essential in delaying or even reversing the effects of many age-related diseases and brain diseases. Furthermore, it can boost your memory and make you smarter. However, there is a need for further studies to confirm these findings.
5. Maca Powder
Maca is a great source of amino acids, fatty acids, fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, zinc, potassium, copper, selenium, B-Vitamins and more. It is also classified as an adaptogen which can help to balance hormones, reduce stress levels in the body and improve energy, attention and endurance without the jitters.
With its soothing adaptogenic effect and balancing hormonal impact, taking maca powder can prevent sleep problems and help you sleep better. Also, maca powder might be beneficial for your weight loss goals, mostly thanks to its energising boost and increased endurance. This means that a surge of energy will stimulate you to work harder in the gym, which in turn helps to burn more calories. Plus, maca is a low-calorie so that you won’t throw it off your diet.
6. Black Pepper
Black pepper is the most used spice in Europe and the United States. It is prepared by grinding peppercorns, which are dried berries from a vine called Piper nigrum. It has a mildly sharp and spicy flavour that goes well with most dishes. However, cinnamon is not just a spice; it has been used in traditional medicine since the era of ancient civilisations. It was used in Ayurvedic medicine for several millennia because of the high concentration of beneficial and potent plant compounds. It is rich in antioxidants which can help neutralise free radicals that cause various chronic conditions. Black pepper has anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial to your body. Chronic inflammation is linked to health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Animal studies suggest that black pepper can improve brain function. Furthermore, it has several benefits for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Also, it can help you regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.
It should be noted that although superfoods are considered to be extra nutritious and possess an array of numerous health benefits, they should not be used to replace a healthy diet consisting of a wide range of different nutrients. To be healthy and fuel your body properly, your diet needs to be balanced and meet the needs of your body should you have any deficiency of minerals or nutrients. Please speak to your nutritionist to have a better understanding of your body needs.