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Every once in a while, the diet and fitness industry comes with new dietary supplements that get the public’s attention. Some are meant to last in the market, as they do comply with what they promise to do.
Such is the case of greens powders, natural supplements made with leafy greens, green vegetables, fruits and so on. These are among the most important foods of vegetable origin for proper nutrition, as they provide many health benefits that could prevent chronic diseases.
But given that we are busier than ever in these times of ours, having fresh fruits and fresh vegetables everyday doesn’t seem like a viable option, and this is what a green powder is for, to supply that need.
Are Green Powders a Waste of Money
In simple terms, these green supplements are powdered veggies such as leafy greens, sprouts, green vegetables and fruits mixed with other superfoods. This is why they are considered whole foods with an important amount of antioxidants.
They don’t lose their nutritional benefits because they are heated at low temperatures, and then they get mixed, forming the greens powder. Some might get natural sugar substitutes blended in their formulas to make them tastier, like monk fruit extract.
Many will wonder if green powder supplements are just another fast-marketing product, intended to be portrayed as a miracle and if they are just a waste of money. If you are eating the daily recommended servings of fruits, vegetables and fresh produce, this product won’t be of much use to you.
But if you are not, or if you follow low-carb diets and do high-intensity workouts, then you are likely to have some nutritional gaps to fill. If this is your case, powdered greens can be of use to you, as stated by Health Canal.
Even more so if you consider that oat grass, for example, is filled with vitamins C, A, E and K and other nutrients but is not really digested by humans. By having a green powder supplement, you can enjoy this superfood and all its benefits.
Are Green Powders Good for You
Healthy Heart
High blood pressure is a very silent danger with many negative health consequences. Some greens powder supplements contain grape seed extract, which promotes healthy blood pressure as it has high levels of oligomeric proanthocyanidins, a flavonoid that helps blood vessels to be resistant and lower blood pressure.
Boosted Immune System
Most greens powders contain a significant amount of vitamins because of their ingredients. Barley grass is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps to strengthen the immune system against infectious diseases. It also stimulates the proper functioning of the bacterial flora, which is crucial to intestinal and digestive health.
Fill Nutritional Gaps
They contain edible grasses, blue-green algae, alfalfa grass, digestive enzymes and many other ingredients that not only give nutritional benefits but also contribute to the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Weight Loss
If you want to lose weight, a good green powder can come in handy. You can choose a formula with apple fiber, for example. Fiber is a great ally for weight loss, as it not only reduces appetite but also partially prevents the absorption of fats and sugar.
Some others have green tea extract, whose catechins can accelerate your metabolism because they induce thermogenesis. Also, green tea extracts have caffeine, so you won’t have to drink energy drinks filled with sugar or corn syrup for higher energy levels. Some formulas have natural sweeteners with no calories, like stevia leaf extract.
Lindsey Desoto, a dietitian in Mississippi, has also given some insights into the supergreens powder benefits and cautions in her articles.
Green Powders Vs. Fresh Vegetables
Can green powders replace vegetables? Although they are easy to use, as you can add them to smoothies, protein powder, soups, oatmeal and so on, as well as contributing with many benefits, a healthy diet should always include fresh vegetables and fruits. A green powder is not intended to completely replace (or swap) your fresh produce intake.
The fiber you get from a vegetable powder mix is not the same fiber from fresh vegetables and fruits. Also, by only relying on these powders as your daily intake for these food groups, you will miss out on the array of minerals, vitamins and nutrients of the wholefoods counterparts.
Conclusion
High-quality green powders have many ingredients and compounds, which makes them an excellent supplement. Nonetheless, regardless of their benefits, it is worth noting that their bioactive compounds can interact with blood thinners or other prescribed drugs like pseudoephedrine.
Ask your doctor before using any dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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