Many people use smoothies as a meal replacement. Others use them as a nutritious breakfast or snack. Regardless of why you are consuming your smoothie, you can improve your health by doing so. There are several types of healthy smoothies that you can consume, especially if you include the following superfood smoothie ingredients:

1. Dark leafy greens

You need to make sure that you add dark greens (i.e., spinach, kale, etc.) to your smoothie. All leafy greens are high in calcium. They also make it easier for the body to absorb calcium. Additionally, greens have vitamin K in them. Zinc is another nutrient that you can find in green vegetables. If you are not getting enough zinc, then you are more likely to suffer FROM poor bone health. Greens are one of the most abundant plant-based sources of zinc.

2. Plain yogurt

Calcium and protein are two of the nutrients that are found in yogurt. Both of those nutrients can help improve bone health. Certain types of this food also have vitamin D in them. Vitamin D helps boost calcium absorption. It is also needed for strong bones. There are different types of yogurt that you can consume. However, it is best for you to include Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is much higher in protein and lower in sugar. It is also a good idea for you to choose plain yogurt. The flavors in yogurt can add extra sugar.

3. Fish oils

Fish oil comes directly from the fish. It has omega 3 fatty acids in it. Omega 3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation around the joints. The inflammation can trigger joint pain and reduce your mobility. Fish oil can also reduce cytokine production. Cytokines are substances that can trigger inflammation. If you have fewer cytokines in your body, then you won’t have as much.

4. Flaxseed

You have a tendency to lose bone as you get older. However, this is not inevitable. Flaxseed can help protect you from bone loss. This is a great plant-based source of omega 3 fatty acids. They also have phytoestrogens in them. The phytoestrogens are similar to estrogen. Increasing phytoestrogens can improve bone health.

5. Dried figs

Figs have calcium, magnesium, manganese and vitamin K in them. All of those nutrients can help improve your bone health. Studies have shown that people who are deficient in magnesium are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Vitamin K can help strengthen the bones and prevent you from suffering a fracture. Manganese is one of the nutrients that helps support the development of bone cartilage. You only need to put a few figs in your smoothies in order to improve your health.

Many patients who suffer from bone and joint pain (i.e., arthritis) find that simple dietary changes can help to reduce symptoms. Many doctors will prescribe prescription medication for arthritis (i.e., Evinity osteoporosis treatment medication) in combination with lifestyle (i.e., gentle exercise) and dietary changes to support bone and joint health.