Powdered greens are a supplement typically made from kale, spinach, collard greens, or other leafy green vegetables that have been ground up and then added to a powder form.
When you think of green foods, kale, spinach, and other leafy greens probably come to mind. While these are all excellent sources of vitamins A and C as well as iron, they aren't the only types of greens that are good for your health. Powdered greens—also known as dehydrated or dried greens—are another type of green that is rich in nutrients and can be easily added to meals and snacks. These types of greens are prepared by removing excess moisture, so they become a powdery substance. The final product is similar to an herb or spice blend; however, it's much easier to consume because it comes in a powdered form. Many people use powdered greens to add the benefits of greens into their diet regularly without having to eat them raw or cook with them regularly.
Powdered greens are dehydrated greens that are turned into a powder that can easily be added to food and beverages. They are created by placing fresh greens in a food dehydrator or through a freeze-drying process, which removes the water from the greens. This process helps preserve vitamins and minerals while making it easier to store and transport the greens. Powdered greens are often made from various greens and herb sources, including kale, spinach, cilantro, parsley, and more. Powdered greens will often include other ingredients, ranging from seeds to different types of fiber. Depending on the type of green used, powdered greens may have a slightly different taste and texture than regular leafy greens. They may be a bit more coarse and have a more earthy, bitter taste than their fresh counterparts.
Are Powdered Greens Good For You?
Powdered greens are vegetables made from different kinds of leafy greens. Powdered greens have a lot of health benefits, and they can be used in many different recipes. Here are three reasons why you should add powdered greens to your diet:
1) They are high in antioxidants. Powdered greens contain vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Antioxidants help reduce the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.
2) They are low in calories. A single cup of powdered greens contains only 31 calories. That's less than most snack foods! So you can enjoy them without feeling guilty.
3) They are gluten-free. Many people with gluten sensitivities find powdered greens taste great and don't cause any problems.
Greens Research
The exact contents of powdered greens vary depending on the brand. Still, powdered greens generally contain dried or dehydrated fruits, vegetables, extracts, vitamins, minerals, and other plant-based ingredients. While powdered greens may provide some benefits, they are no substitute for proven immune-supporting lifestyle behaviors such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
Drinkable greens are a way to ingest a large portion of your body's daily needs in a single easy step. Many companies making these nutrient-dense powders, like Athletic Greens, claim drinkable greens are more accessible for your body to break down and absorb than eating the green ingredients in their raw, plant-based forms.
Research is lacking about greens powders, but studies on similar products, such as fruit-vegetable powder mixes or fruit-vegetable concentrates, could offer insights into the potential for greens powders to enhance health. That is, greens powders could potentially boost their content of health-promoting properties similar to those found in fresh fruits and vegetables, like antioxidants, vitamins, and polyphenols.
Convenient greens powders are ideal for anyone who feels like they are not eating enough greens daily. A greens powder is full of essential vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and adaptogens, all of which can help with immune system health, energy levels, recovery, and digestion.
While eating fruits and vegetables in their natural states is always ideal, for those that struggle to eat enoguh each day, a greens powder can make sure that you are getting the nutrients your body needs. A blend of greens is typically a good source of trace minerals, like vitamins A, K, and C.
How to Incorporate Powdered Greens into Your Diet
If you're interested in adding powdered greens to your diet, the easiest way is to find them in a pre-mixed blend in capsule form. You can also purchase powdered greens and add them to your meal or snack. You can start by adding a few scoops of greens to your smoothie, adding them to yogurt and granola, or sprinkling them on top of your salad or other meal. If you have young children at home, you can incorporate powdered greens into their diet by mixing it into thier smoothies and yogurt. Greens are also great in homemade baked goods and recipes.
Bottom Line
Powdered greens are a convenient way to boost your intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They're also an easy addition to various meals and snacks for all ages. Some powdered greens may contain added ingredients, such as seeds and fibers, that can provide extra calories. When consumed in moderation, powdered greens are a great way to get the benefits of greens in your diet regularly.
