Smoothies are a great way to create a healthy meal or snack that not only tastes great but also delivers a lot of nutritional value.

While there are a variety of healthy smoothie recipes you can choose from (like my Strawberry Banana Smoothie, Blueberry Smoothie, Vanilla Cake Batter Smoothie and more), you can always add a smoothie boost to maximize the nutrient value of your drink.

What is a smoothie boost? A “smoothie boost” refers to any ingredient added to a smoothie that enhances its nutritional value without significantly altering its taste or texture. These boosts are typically packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, or other health-promoting compounds.

The idea is to fortify the smoothie in a way that supports overall health, energy levels, and specific wellness goals like improving digestion, enhancing immune function, or increasing protein intake.

Whether you’re new to smoothies or looking to elevate your recipes, these add-ins will help you maximize your health benefits in just a few simple steps. Get ready to blend and sip your way to better health.

Top Smoothie Boosts

Below is a full list of all of the smoothie boosts I’ve come across as a recipe write and health coach for over 15 years. The list is long, so I wanted to give you my “top 5” that is easily accessible and keep forever in the fridge.

1. Chia Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, they also help thicken your smoothie, making it more satisfying.
2. Hemp Seeds: A complete protein source that also provides essential fatty acids and a mild, nutty flavor.
3. Flaxseeds: High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, and best absorbed when ground.
   (Tip: I buy a blend of chia, hemp, & flax seeds on Thrive Market and keep them in a jar in the fridge—here’s my partner link for 40% off your first order.)
4. Collagen Powder: Great for skin, hair, and joint health, and it dissolves easily without altering the flavor.
5. Colostrum: Known for its immune-boosting properties, colostrum also supports gut health and is rich in antibodies and growth factors. I’ve been using Armra Colostrum and have noticed improved gut health, and my hair is growing like crazy. (Here’s my discount code.)

Storage tip: Smoothie boosts like flax, chia, and hemp seeds are ok to store at room temperature for short periods of time. I generally store them in the fridge to maximize freshness. When in doubt, read the package and follow package instructions.

18 Awesome Smoothie Boosts to Maximum Nutrition

While any fruits and veggies up the nutritional value of your smoothie, this list is focused on extras and additions that you can add in to any smoothie. I suggest selecting one or two to add to your smoothie — no need to add them all! 😉

I get almost all of my pantry goods and the items listed below on Thrive Market, an online natural grocer that eliminates the middlemen to bring us the best prices. Here is my partner link for 40% off + free shipping on your first order.)

1. Chia Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, they also help thicken your smoothie, making it more satisfying.
2. Hemp Seeds: A complete protein source that also provides essential fatty acids and a mild, nutty flavor.
3. Flaxseeds: High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, and best absorbed when ground.
4. Collagen Powder: Great for skin, hair, and joint health, and it dissolves easily without altering the flavor.
5. Pumpkin Seeds: A good source of magnesium, zinc, and fatty acids, and add a subtle nutty flavor.
6. Almond Butter: Provides healthy fats, protein, and a rich, creamy texture.
7. Manuka Honey: Not only does it add a touch of sweetness, but it’s also renowned for its antibacterial properties and healing benefits, making it a healthful sweetener choice.
8. Colostrum: Known for its immune-boosting properties, colostrum also supports gut health and is rich in antibodies and growth factors. I’ve been using Armra Colostrum and have noticed improved gut health, and my hair is growing like crazy. (Here’s my discount code.)
9. Coconut Oil: Adds healthy fats that support metabolism and provide a slight tropical flavor.
10. Avocado: Adds creaminess and heart-healthy fats without overpowering other flavors.
11. Unsweetened Greek Yogurt: Boosts protein content significantly and adds a creamy texture.
12. Bee Pollen: Packed with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other nutrients, it also adds a slight sweetness.
13. Frozen Cauliflower: Sounds strange I know! But frozen cauliflower adds creaminess and thickness without a strong taste, while boosting fiber content.
14. Spirulina: A blue-green algae that is a powerhouse of nutrients including protein, B vitamins, and iron.
15. Cacao Powder: Cacao is raw chocolate. It offers a chocolate flavor along with antioxidants, magnesium, and iron.
16. Maca Root Powder: Known for boosting energy and endurance, it also has a mild, nutty flavor.
17. Matcha Powder: This finely ground green tea leaves provide antioxidants, especially catechins, and a gentle caffeine boost.
18. Turmeric: Offers anti-inflammatory benefits and adds a vibrant color with a mild flavor.

Each of these add-ins not only enhances the nutritional profile of your smoothie but also contributes to its taste and texture, making your smoothie a more balanced and healthful meal.

Check out the healthy smoothie archive here.