Smoothies are a delicious, convenient way to boost your nutrition on the go. But those colorful blends from the juice bar can be pricey, often costing $8 to $11 or more.

A better bet? Make your own. Not only is it less expensive, but you control the ingredients.

“You can add herbs and other ingredients that create a powerhouse of energy and offer medicinal properties,” said nutritionist Lindsey Bro. “Use your smoothie not just as fuel, but as a tool.”

Here, Bro and other diet pros share their favorite smoothie recipes packed with ingredients to help you stay energized, focused and feeling your best no matter what your day holds.

Best Travel Smoothie

Star ingredient: acai berry puree

Rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fats, fiber and vitamin A, acai helps support immunity on the go. Chia seeds, oats and figs add circulation-boosting fiber and nutrients.

• 1 pack acai berry puree (unsweetened, thawed slightly)
• ½ banana (frozen)
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup mixed berries (frozen)
• 2-3 figs (fresh or rehydrated dried)
• ½ cup coconut water
• 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds

Blend until smooth. Add ice for a thicker texture. Garnish with coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey

Best Breakfast Smoothie

Star ingredient: Collagen protein
Collagen may support joints, digestion and hair and nail strength. Combined with spinach, fruit and wheatgrass, this energizing blend is a supercharged start to the day.

• 1 cup frozen mango
• 1 1/2 cups coconut water
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp wheatgrass
• 2 scoops collagen protein

Blend until smooth and enjoy! Makes 2 servings.

Best Recovery Smoothie

Star ingredient: Pumpkin puree
Pumpkin is rich in potassium and magnesium to help replenish electrolytes and ease post-party fatigue. Smooth and satisfying, this blend helps reset your system gently after a night out. 

• 1 cup almond or oat milk
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ½ banana (frozen)
• 1 handful spinach
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup ice

Blend and enjoy. Serve in a bowl topped with chia seeds, coconut flakes or nuts if desired.

Best Beauty Smoothie

Star ingredient: Silken tofu
Tofu’s plant-based protein promotes skin cell repair, while antioxidant-rich berries, seeds and healthy fats support heart health and help you glow from the inside out.

• 2 cups spinach
• ¾ cup blueberries
• ¼ avocado
• 2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 Tbsp walnuts
• ¼ cup cooked quinoa 
• ½ cup silken tofu
• 8-10 oz water or unsweetened plant-based milk
• ½ cup ice

Blend until smooth. Add extra water or soy milk to adjust thickness as desired.

Best Brain-Boost Smoothie

Star ingredient: Wild blueberries
Wild blueberries have more fiber and antioxidants than regular blueberries, supporting memory and focus. They’re also a key component of the MIND diet, a hybrid of the Mediterranean and DASH diets designed to support brain health. According to a study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, those who closely follow the MIND diet may reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s disease by up to 53 percent.

Add protein to stabilize blood sugar and keep energy steady through meetings or presentations.

• ¾-1 cup water or coconut water
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• ½ small frozen banana
• ½ cup wild blueberries
• ½ cup frozen riced cauliflower
• 1 cup frozen spinach (or 2 cups raw)
• ½ tsp xanthan gum (optional, for texture)
• 1 cup ice

Blend until creamy. Top with chia seeds, nuts, granola, cacao nibs or coconut flakes if desired.

Smart Smoothie Strategies

• Watch portions. Even though fruit contains natural sugar, too much can spike blood sugar and leave you feeling hungrier. Limit fruit to 1 cup and balance with veggies, protein and ice.

• Define your goal. If your smoothie is a snack, keep toppings light. If it’s a meal, include protein and fiber-rich ingredients to keep you satisfied.

• Sit and savor. Smoothie bowls encourage mindful eating. Eating with a spoon can help you feel fuller and more satisfied. 

“I love the smoothie bowl trend because it’s getting people to sit down and eat their smoothie with a spoon,” said registered dietitian Jessica Cording. “Plus, research shows that the simple act of chewing your calories is more satiating than drinking them.”

• Choose protein wisely. Avoid isolated soy protein, which may affect hormone balance. Opt for whey, collagen, egg white or pea protein instead.

• Be kind to your blender. Add soft ingredients first. Add frozen chunks last. Begin on low speed and increase gradually for a smooth, even texture.

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