These superfoods will make your smoothies even healthier

There are many delicious things you can add to a smoothie, but most start with a similar blueprint: Frozen or fresh fruit, sweetener (sugar, honey, maple syrup, etc.), and any type of milk, from almond to coconut to plain old skim. But there are a few powdered add-ons you can toss in to vastly up the nutritional value of any smoothie.

Most of these natural substances have some sort of healing property, earning them the moniker of "superfood." Some are anti-inflammatory, while others improve mood, reduce anxiety and depression, or boost energy. The taste is so slight that you'll hardly notice them in your smoothie—until, maybe, you realize you're feeling particularly great.

Spirulina

A form of detoxifying blue-green algae, spirulina is a great source of a source of dietary protein, B-vitamins, and iron, and can be used to treat a host of health conditions from obesity to anxiety to ADHD. Combine with frozen berries, banana, and your favorite type of milk for a delicious smoothie that not only tastes great, but and can aid in boosting immune system function.

Matcha

Perhaps the trendiest of superfoods right now, matcha is dried, ground green tea leaves that boast 137 times more antioxidants than regularly brewed green tea. One serving of matcha packs 10 times the nutritional potency of traditional green tea. Try adding it to a smoothie with avocado, Greek yogurt, milk, and sweetener for a filling, vitamin-packed snack that can boost your metabolism.

Bee pollen

Yes, this is the very stuff that collects on a bee’s body. Don't let that put you off: Bee pollen contains almost all of the nutrients required by the human body, including amino acids, lipids, vitamins, macro- and micronutrients, and flavonoids. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, stress reliever, and immune booster. Add it to a mix of berries, sweetener, and milk for a smoothie that can reduce allergy symptoms and boost energy.

Maca root

Maca root is a cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli and Brussels sprouts) and has more than 20 amino acids and a broad range of vitamins. Its benefits include hormone balance, improved immune system function, and increased energy and focus. Maca root pairs well with peanut butter, so toss them both in a blender with banana and milk for an energy boost and clearer skin.

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