Green powder is extremely popular nowadays. Many fitness enthusiasts have used it to load up their daily intake of veggies and fruits. But while greens powder is a great support to boost one’s immune system, ingredients vary widely from one brand to another and may affect the resulting benefits.
That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that the greens powder you get is high-quality. However, doing so can be pretty hard given the several types of greens powder with lots of variation in the formula on the market.
To make your decision a whole lot easier, we’ve put together some points you can factor in when choosing the best greens powder.
Look For The Key Ingredients
While many of these green powder products claim to have health benefits, they come from a number of resources with different nutritional profiles. With that, the first thing you should consider in a greens powder is the ingredient list.
Note that a high-quality greens powder gives a natural source of energy, balances the body’s pH level, and protects it against free radical damage. Based on the best greens powder 2021, below are the key ingredients that will deliver such benefits:
- Spirulina: One of the notable aspects of spirulina is the high amount of proteins, which make up nearly 70% of its nutritional contents. Such proteins are found to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of blood clots and heart diseases. Since it has low calories, adding spirulina to one’s diet may help a person lose weight without compromising nutrition.
- Chlorella: Like spirulina, chlorella is also a great source of protein. However, it has higher levels of vitamins and minerals and is a much better source of healthy fats like omega-3s. Unlike most plant-based sources, chlorella also contains all nine essential amino acids, vital for creating proteins, repairing tissues, and absorbing nutrients.
- Wheatgrass: Packed with a powerful mixture of vitamins and phytonutrients, wheatgrass is a must-have ingredient in your greens powder. It’s another great option to maintain a healthy weight since it’s super low in calories. With its antioxidant compounds, wheatgrass can also help eliminate toxins in the body, fight chronic inflammation and boost metabolism.
- Beetroot: As an amazing source of high fiber, beets are a great addition to your greens powder. It can contribute to smoother digestion and better gut health. The red pigment in beetroot known as betalain has high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect cells from damage. It is also rich in nitrates that help bring more oxygen to cells and aid in muscle recovery.
- Pomegranates: This red-rich fruit is a good source of vitamins as well as folic acid. The antioxidants in pomegranates are three times higher than wine or green tea. Thus, it also protects the body from infections and chronic diseases. Fresh pomegranate is another source of fiber, which can support weight loss, reduce cholesterol levels and improve bowel function.
- Chia Seeds: Loaded with fiber, protein, omega-3s, and antioxidants, chia seeds have the ability to improve digestion, promote cardiovascular health, and lower the risk of many diseases. They also produce the mega energy boost you need during the workday.
Keep An Eye On The Quantity
The quantity of ingredients in the greens powder is as important as its quality. One reason is that there is a required minimum amount for such ingredients before you can reap their benefits.
Because though many manufacturers claim that their products are nutrient-dense, some can turn out with a much lower potency than the amount required to attain their desired effects.
Note that most greens powder use proprietary blends, which do not disclose how much of each ingredient they use.
So, as much as possible, pay attention to the supplement label and ensure that the amounts for each ingredient are listed. By knowing the amount of key ingredients you’re getting per serving, you’ll better understand the product’s potency that will help you make a more informed decision.
Watch Out For The Fillers
Not all greens powders are created equal. While they are generally designed to bring benefits to health, these products may contain fillers and flavors that can compromise the nutrients. Note that the vegetables and other substances in greens powder don’t naturally taste good. It’s even more so when they are condensed into a single scoop.
That’s why some manufacturers may use potentially harmful ingredients to make the taste of greens powders palatable. In order to maximize the benefits of greens powders and lessen the risks, it would be best to avoid products that contain a whole lot of the following:
- Thickeners
- Artificial sweeteners
- Artificial colors
- Non-organic or GMO ingredients
Research About The Brand
Because greens powders are supplements, they are not technically regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It means that the ingredients, quality, and serving size of such products may be questionable. Thus, make sure to purchase your greens powder from a reputable company. Look for a brand that is certified through a third-party testing laboratory.
It will also help if you check out other customer’s reviews and experiences about the product. Doing so will give you an idea of whether or not the product benefit claims are effective.
Additional Points To Consider
It’s essential to note that more is not necessarily better when it comes to supplementation. Remember that excessive nutrients can result in unwanted weight gain, impact your metabolic processes and increase your risk of nutritional toxicities. Thus, make sure that your nutrient intake from greens powder is balanced and sufficient to meet your needs.
Before purchasing a greens powder, it’s also best to discuss your choices with your primary care provider, especially if you have a certain medical condition or you’re taking some medications.
Final Thoughts
There are many greens powder out there, but not all can bring the health benefits you desire. No matter what, it’s vital to take some time and research before taking any of those green powder products. Also, keep in mind that greens powders are only supplements and should by no means replace your whole food.