The Modern Gal's Smoothie Essentials

Peanut butter, banana, and a few splashes of milk go a long way in creating a nutritious smoothie. However, in this superfood-crazed world, those simple ingredients aren’t always enough. With health food stores stocked with multiple varieties of nut butters, non-dairy milk options, and more, smoothie standards are at an all time high.

So kick up the nutritional quality of your smoothie with the following superfood essentials, providing energy to power you through your day!

Not your ordinary nut butter.

Peanut butter and almond butter have already made their mark in the smoothie world. But what about cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, and pumpkin seed butter? These “new” nut butters provide essential vitamins and minerals, which aren’t found in a jar of peanut butter. Try making your own nut butter at home—the process itself is very rewarding and allows you the freedom to include flavors and nut varieties of your preference.

Dairy-free milks.

Dairy-free milks like almond, coconut, hemp, and flax milk are extremely easy on your digestive system and are available in abundance. If you think you might have an intolerance to lactose or dairy, monior your symptoms as you experiment with these varieties. The removal of dairy from your diet may also contribute to clearer skin.

Cacao powder.

Aim for pure, raw cacao powder. It has a potent dose of magnesium, which is especially important for females, as dietary intake among women is often low. Cacao can boost your mood and cut unhealthy sugar cravings in half. Cacao powder is the perfect addition to a simple smoothie consisting of wild blueberries, cashew butter, ALOHA Vanilla Protein, and non-dairy milk of choice.

Maca.

A little bit of this potent root goes a long way in providing natural energy, balancing hormones, and boosting your libido. One to two teaspoons in your smoothie a few times a week should be sufficient.

Spirulina.

This green algae is extremely detoxifying and a complete source of protein. Sprinkle just a tad into your smoothies (especially those made with spinach) to create a beautiful, green, skin-loving concoction.

Raw Honey.

Honey, an anti-inflammatory ingredient, is an optimal way to add natural sweetness to your smoothie. For a delicious breakfast smoothie, trying blending a little bit of raw honey with a splash of maple syrup, and then toss it into the blender with gluten-free oats, banana, ALOHA Protein, nut butter, and non-dairy milk of choice.

Bee pollen.

These little yellow superfood sprinkles are having a moment! It’s minerally dense, alkalizing, and complete essential protein. Not to mention that it’s high in vitamin B, which helps combat acne and skin aging. Just a small sprinkle on top of any smoothie will do the trick!

Plant-based protein powders.

Forgo chalky overproccessed powders that have hidden, unnatural ingredients. ALOHA’s plant-based proteins are a healthy way to get 18 grams of real-food plant protein in each serving. Filled with pumpkin and hemp seeds, the powders come in chocolate and vanilla flavors, to satisfy your cravings. No chemicals, fillers, or artificial sweeteners. Just pure, creamy, and nutritious flavors.

With these essential ingredients, the smoothie possibilities are endless. So get creative and find what tastes right for you. Be sure to share your ALOHA smoothie creations on Instagram #alohamoment, and learn more about our plant-based protein powders here.

Photo Credit: iStock