Spoon University Logo
IMG 6565
IMG 6565
Lifestyle

5 Superfoods That Will Amp Up Any Smoothie

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at UC Berkeley chapter.

From the ordinary strawberry banana to the familiar peanut butter chocolate, all smoothies eventually seem to *blend* into one. But as one of the quickest breakfast options out there, smoothies are the one staple I really can’t live without. When I’d really rather not sip on bits of blended kale at 8 am but still want an extra kick of nutrition, I turn to these five superfoods to help me jumpstart my day. 

1. Coconut Oil

superfood banana
Sarah Fung

Price: $6.99 for 14 fluid oz.

How to use: add 1-2 tablespoons (melted) per 16 fluid oz.

In case you didn’t know, coconut oil is magic. Need to wash your face? Ran out of toothpaste? Craving fries, like now? Coconut oil has you covered, and smoothies are no exception. Due to its healthy fat content, coconut oil can help keep you full and burn fat. Summer bods, here we come.

2. Spirulina

superfood tea
Sarah Fung

Price: $14.99 for 5 oz.

How to use: Add 1-2 tablespoons of powder per 16 fluid oz.

Famous for its distinct green hue, spirulina is a natural “algae” that’s easy to digest. Lucky for us, it’s protein packed (with four grams in every tablespoon), which makes getting our daily fill that much easier. 

3. Maca Powder

superfood grass
Sarah Fung

Price: $14.99 for 4oz.

How to use: Add 1 tablespoon of powder per 16 fluid oz.

In need of a burst of energy, or even a mood boost? This power food can help! Grown in the mountains of Peru, Maca is a unique member of the radish family. With a caramel, malt-like flavor, this nutrient-rich powder is said to do it all from ease anxiety to even improve libido. Steamy, I know. 

4. Bee Pollen

superfood herb tea
Sarah Fung

Price: $11.49 for 4oz.

How to use: Add on top or blend 1-2 tablespoons per 16 fluid oz.

Bees aren’t just about the honey, hunni. While less commonplace than honey, bee pollen is equally powerful. It’s even been known to help seasonal allergies. With a vaguely sweet honey flavor, bee pollen can add the perfect crunch. I definitely recommend it on top of a thick smoothie bowl for a granola-like bite.  

5. Chia Seeds

superfood beer tea
Sarah Fung

Price: $9.99 for 16oz.

How to use: Add 2 tablespoons per 16 fluid oz.

Despite their deceptively small size, chia seeds definitely pack a punch. When mixed with liquid, these simple seeds become bundles of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. And thanks to their mild flavor, you won’t even know they’re there!

No matter your smoothie style, these five superfoods are quick and easy additions that’ll quickly find their way into your staple breakfast routine. 

Emma Sayiner

UC Berkeley '20