Strengthen Your Smoothies (and Your Immune System) with These Boosters!

One of our favorite and most convenient breakfasts as busy boss ladies would have to be smoothies. Time is more precious than ever these days and it only takes a few minutes to blend up something delicious and healthy right in our own kitchen! But since a smoothie can easily turn into a giant sugar bomb with loads of fruit and juice, we try to be conscious about what goes into our blender. Healthy fats, proteins, and my go-to smoothie boosters help us to get my day going on a positive note. We turned to our fearless leader Lauren Conrad for her expertise on nutritional extras that are the perfect addition to any smoothie!

1. Acai Powder
Acai is a fan favorite when it comes to superfoods, and for good reason. This berry is high in antioxidants and fiber and does wonders for skin and anti-aging. Trying to regulate your cholesterol? Add acai into your next smoothie.

2. Maca
Another superfood powder that’s worthy of your next smoothie is Maca. Maca contains vitamin B, which promotes a healthy metabolism, balances hormones, and can help your body regulate mood swings.

3. Collagen Powder
You may be familiar with collagen since it’s linked to so many anti-aging beauty products these days. Collagen is a major protein in our bodies and we usually don’t ingest enough of it in our regular diets. Add some collagen powder to your smoothie to help benefit your hair, skin, and overall cell growth.

4. Bee Pollen
This next smoothie booster may come as a surprise. Locally sourced bee pollen not only helps combat seasonal allergies, but it will provide your body with a natural energy boost, strengthened immune system, improved digestion, and can even reduce stress. It is recommended that you start with about ¼ teaspoon of bee pollen in your smoothie and slowly work your way up from there.

5. Powdered Greens
We all know how beneficial it is to eat your fruits and veggies, and sprinkling some greens in powdered form can be the best thing you do for yourself today. Powdered greens are easily absorbed, allowing your body to get the most out of their nutrients. These highly concentrated greens are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and can lower your risk for heart disease and blood clots, and reduce inflammation.

6. Reishi Mushroom Powder
Reishi is a type of mushroom with immense health benefits. This mushroom comes in powdered form, making it easy to add into your daily smoothie. It is known to help detoxify the liver, boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and increase mental energy, among all of its other amazing benefits.

7. Chia Seeds
Virtually flavorless, chia seeds are a great way to add nutrients to your smoothie without sacrificing flavor. Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, keeping your body hydrated. Chia seeds are a great digestive aid and provide a sustaining flow of natural energy.

8. Ground Flaxseed
Flaxseed contains Omega-3 fatty acids, or good fats that help reduce your risk of heart disease. Flaxseed is a great source of dietary fiber and can help reduce inflammation.

9. Cacao Nibs
That’s right, chocolate is a healthy option to add into your smoothie! Cacao nibs pack a strong punch of antioxidants, and help your body absorb free radicals that can cause harm to your body. Sprinkle cacao nibs on top of your smoothie for a fun crunch or simply blend them in with the rest of your ingredients—either way you can’t go wrong.

10. Adaptogens
My team wrote an entire post on adaptogens here, but I thought that they would be worth revisiting today. Adaptogens are herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine that promote homeostasis, or a stable equilibrium, in the body. You can find out some of my team’s favorite adaptogens in this post.

Mix and match these boosters and devour the details of getting the most out of your next smoothie!