Have you ever wondered what green powders are and why there’s so much buzz around them? We spoke with Nexus Nutrition to provide some practical insights into this growing trend.
Everything You Need to Know About Greens
Recent studies show that to maintain an optimal digestive system, we should aim to consume about 400 grams of vegetables per day—nearly a pound, which is quite a lot! However, many people find it challenging to meet this goal.
It’s common to overlook the benefits of adding fruits and vegetables to our diets. The increasing number of advertisements for fast food and ready-to-eat meals has made it challenging to meet our goal of consuming more green vegetables!
This explains why greens and superfoods are becoming increasingly popular, with annual sales on the rise. But should we actually consume them? Can they replace our vegetables? Let’s discuss!
What are “Greens”?
“Greens” refers to a variety of leafy green vegetables, such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and even seaweed, all known for their high nutritional value. These might be the vegetables you were forced to eat as a kid, and they often come with a reputation for being bland or unappetizing. However, they are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and well-being.
They are considered a subcategory of superfoods, which also includes nutrient-rich options like spirulina, chlorella, superfruits (açaí, goji berries), and super seeds (flaxseeds, chia seeds).
The buzz around greens comes from their impressive nutritional profile, packed with vitamins (A, C, E, and K), minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium), fibre, and antioxidants.
They’re easy to incorporate into daily meals, whether in salads, smoothies, soups, or as a cooked side dish.
Understanding Green Powders
Green powder is a blend of dehydrated vegetables ground into a fine powder, typically consumed in water or added to protein smoothies. While they shouldn’t replace your intake of whole vegetables, green powders can be a convenient option if you lack the time or resources to consume your daily greens.
It’s important to note that many nutrients can be lost during the processing of green powders, so prioritizing whole vegetables as your primary source is essential. When choosing green powders, look for those that are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants to ensure you’re getting the most benefit.
What are The Nutritional Benefits of Greens?
Green powders were created to help you meet your daily intake of vegetables and fruits. Easily mixed with water, they are formulated to be consumed at any time of the day.
Most green vegetable powders contain between 20 to 35 different healthy and natural ingredients that are dried and ground, along with various superfoods. A well-formulated green powder supplement should not only taste good but ideally include:
- Fibre
- Herbs
- Enzymes
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Seed and root extracts
- Antioxidants
- Edible green leaves
- Seaweed
- Superfoods
- Nutritional herbs
Nutritional Benefits of Green Powders
Green powders are praised for their health benefits, one of the most notable being their ability to boost energy levels without significantly increasing calorie intake.
Let’s unpack these benefits together and explore how greens can complement your diet.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Green powders are packed with essential vitamins (A, C, E, and K) and minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which are crucial for overall health. Made from dehydrated leafy greens, they’re not only low in calories but also help support various body systems, contributing to energy production, cell function, and the prevention of chronic diseases.
Here are some green vegetables to consider to fully enjoy the benefits of both whole greens and green powders:
- Collard greens
- Herbs (parsley, basil, cilantro, etc.)
- Kale
- Lettuce (romaine, leaf, arugula, etc.)
High in Antioxidants
Green powders offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce stress markers in the body and protect against diseases. A stronger immune system is key to maintaining overall health!
Antioxidants act quickly to neutralize free radicals, preventing damage to your cells. While your body naturally produces antioxidants to defend itself, external factors like an unhealthy diet, chronic inflammation, stress, and pollution increase the burden of free radicals. This makes it more important to ensure you’re getting enough antioxidants to help protect your cells.
Supports Digestive Health:
Green powders often include fiber and probiotics, which promote healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome.
Consuming a wide variety of fibers daily is crucial for maintaining good gut health. It’s important to include a diverse range of plant-based foods in your diet every day to support a diverse bacterial population in your microbiome.
Boosts Energy Levels
Did you know that a small study published by the National Library of Medicine found that green powders containing green tea extract may enhance alertness? The nutrient-dense profile of green powders can offer a natural energy boost, helping to combat fatigue and improve overall vitality.
Aids in Detoxification
Green powders are also commonly used for detoxification, as they can help lower blood acidity, much like regular vegetables. This alkalizing effect can support the body’s natural detox processes, promoting better liver function and overall health.
Incorporating green powders into your diet can be a simple and effective way to support your body’s efforts to maintain a balanced pH and reduce the burden of toxins.
Convenient Nutrient Source
In an ideal world, we would all consume our greens daily! For those who find it challenging, green powders provide a quick and convenient way to boost your vegetable intake, particularly for those with busy lifestyles.
Helps Manage Weight
Low in calories but high in nutrients, green powders can aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks. According to Nexus Nutrition, many of their clients enjoy sipping their greens as a daily snack. Brands are working to improve their formulas, ensuring that they are not only organic and healthy but also delicious for those pursuing fat loss!