Benefits of Taking Greens Superfood Powders and Supplements

The Benefits of Greens Powder Supplements

In recent years, greens powders like Athletic Greens have grown increasingly popular thanks to celebrity endorsements and rising health consciousness. But are these powdered greens actually good for you? Registered dietitians weigh in on the real benefits of greens supplements and how they compare to eating fresh vegetables.

What Are Greens Powders?

Greens powders are supplements made from a variety of concentrated vegetables, fruits, and herbs that have been dried and ground into a fine powder. Some of the most common ingredients include:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Collard greens
• Broccoli
• Spirulina
• Chlorella
• Wheatgrass
• Barley grass
• Alfalfa grass

These nutrient-dense whole foods provide an easy way to increase your daily vegetable and fruit intake. Just mix the greens powder into water, juice, smoothies, or other foods and drinks.

Potential Health Benefits of Greens Powders

Research shows that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of many chronic illnesses. Since greens powders are concentrated sources of produce, they may offer similar benefits, including:

• Boosting immunity
• Reducing inflammation
• Providing antioxidants
• Detoxifying the body
• Increasing energy
• Aiding digestion
• Improving skin, hair, and nails
• Promoting heart health
• Supporting brain function
• Helping maintain a healthy weight

Examining the Popular Athletic Greens Formula

Athletic Greens is currently one of the most sought-after greens powder supplements. Its premium formula packs 75 high-quality ingredients into one scoop, including probiotics, antioxidants, adaptogens, and superfoods.

Specific health benefits provided by Athletic Greens may include:

• Strengthening the immune system
• Increasing energy levels
• Promoting healthy digestion
• Detoxifying the body
• Enhancing focus and mental clarity

With so many vital micronutrients, greens powders like Athletic Greens can help fill common nutritional gaps that lead to reduced immunity, low energy, digestive issues, brain fog, and more.

How Greens Powders Compare to Fresh Produce

Fresh, organic fruits and vegetables should still make up the foundation of a healthy diet. But research shows that only about 10% of Americans eat the recommended daily amount.

This is where greens powders shine they conveniently help close the nutritional gap. And since the produce is finely ground and condensed, greens powders may be even more nutrient-dense than fresh produce in some cases.

However, greens powders lack the fiber found in whole vegetables and fruits. Fiber is essential for proper digestion, heart health, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy weight. So be sure to still get plenty of high-fiber foods in your diet.

How to Choose the Best Greens Powder

If you want to give greens powders a try, keep the following tips in mind when comparing different brands and products:

• Make sure vegetables and fruits are at the top of the ingredients list
• Check for a variety of nutrient-dense green foods like spinach, kale, alfalfa, etc.
• Avoid powders with unnecessary fillers, artificial flavors/colors, or high amounts of sugar
• Look for mild, natural flavors that wont overwhelm the green taste
• Consider adding extras like prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and adaptogens
• Research quality, transparency, sourcing standards, and company reputation

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

When consumed according to package directions, greens powders are likely safe for most healthy adults. However, some people may experience digestive upset, bloating, gas, or changes in stool consistency when first using greens supplements.

Start with about half the listed serving size and gradually work your way up allow your body adjusts. Also, be sure to take greens powders several hours apart from medications or other supplements as the nutrients could impact absorption.

Pregnant women, children, and anyone with a known medical condition should consult their doctor before taking a new supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greens Powders

Do greens powders go bad?

Properly stored greens powders can last around two years before nutrients start to degrade. Heat, sunlight, moisture and exposure to air will cause greens powders spoil faster. Keep your container sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct light.

When should I take greens powders?

Most people take greens powders early in the day. Try mixing it into your breakfast smoothie or enjoy it 30-60 minutes before lunch or dinner. The vitamins and minerals will get absorbed into your system more efficiently when taken apart from meals.

Are greens superfood powders safe while pregnant or nursing?

It's always best to check with your doctor before taking any supplement while pregnant or breastfeeding. Providing you stick to the standard dosage, most high-quality greens powders containing only real food ingredients should be safe.

The Bottom Line on Greens Powder Supplements

Packed with concentrated fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense greens, powdered greens supplements can be a convenient way to help fill nutritional gaps and promote better health. While whole foods should still make up the majority of your diet, quality greens powders provide an excellent nutritional boost.

Leading brands like Athletic Greens meticulously source all ingredients, avoiding fillers, flavors and low-quality extracts. By sticking to real, natural superfoods and adding in gut-healthy probiotics and adaptogens, reputable greens powders truly live up to their name for being super supplements.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.