All about greens: here's what you need to know
Greens have become increasingly popular in recent years. The reason is quite logical. This blend of vegetable, fruit, and algae powders is an easy way to get an extra dose of nutrients. In this way, it contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Whether you're an active athlete, lead a busy life and struggle to eat enough fresh vegetables, or have good intentions. Greens full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can be a valuable addition to your diet.
In this blog, you'll discover what greens actually are, which ingredients are often found in greens, and their benefits. We discuss how you can use them in various ways, from adding them to smoothies and juices to incorporating them into meals.
What are greens?
Greens are a collection of various vegetables, algae, and grass powders that are packed with nutrients. These supplements have become popular due to their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibres. They offer an easy way to include extra nutrients in your daily diet. This can be particularly beneficial for people with busy lives or those who struggle to consume enough vegetables. However, it's important to know that greens are always a supplement to your diet and not a replacement for meals.1
What are the benefits of greens?
Greens have a wide range of benefits, depending on the specific ingredients they contain, thanks to their rich nutritional profile:
- Immune system support: The high concentrations of vitamins like vitamin C (from various natural vegetable and fruit powders) support the immune system and activate the body's natural energy.
- Natural detoxification: Ingredients such as chlorella contribute to the maintenance of normal liver function*.
* Claim(s) pending approval by the European Commission. - Digestive support: Many greens contain fibres (such as rye, sugar beet, oat grain, barley grain fibres) that are beneficial for bowel function.
Superfoods and greens: what are the differences?
Superfoods are foods that are rich in nutrients, such as berries, nuts, and seeds. Greens also fall under the category of superfoods, but they are distinguished by their specific focus on green plants. While superfoods form a broader category, greens primarily focus on vegetable and algae powders that are rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals.
Chlorella and spirulina in Greens
Chlorella and spirulina are two popular ingredients that you often find in greens. And for good reason. Chlorella, a green single-celled freshwater algae, contributes to the maintenance of normal liver function*.* Claim(s) pending approval by the European Commission. The question of whether spirulina or chlorella is better often arises. Both have unique properties and together form a good combination.2
How much greens do you need?
The exact amount of greens you need can vary depending on your diet and lifestyle. Generally, we recommend taking one serving of greens powder (usually one scoop) per day.
It's important to start with a small amount and gradually increase it to allow your body to adjust to the new nutrients. It's important to follow the recommended dosage. Please read the label for this information.
How to use greens?
There are various ways to incorporate greens into your diet:
- With water: Mix a scoop of greens powder with a glass of water. This is the simplest way to use greens and is especially handy if you're in a hurry. The taste might take some getting used to, especially if you're not accustomed to the taste of green powders.
- In smoothies or vegetable juice: Add greens to your favourite smoothie for extra nutrients. By adding greens to a smoothie with fruit and yoghurt or plant-based milk, you can soften the taste of the greens. Try a combination of banana, spinach, avocado, and a scoop of greens powder for a good start to the day.
- Protein shakes: Greens can also be added to protein shakes, especially after exercising to support recovery and energy levels.
- In soups and sauces: A creative way to add greens to your diet is by mixing them into soups and sauces. This can enhance the nutritional value of your meals without significantly altering the taste. Add the greens once the soup has cooled slightly.
- Baking: Although less common, you can also add greens powder to baking recipes like muffins, pancakes, or bread. This can be a simple way to get extra nutrients, especially if you have children who are picky about vegetables. Do note that the colour of your baked goods may change due to the green powder.
Greens: an extra portion of vegetables in one glass
Greens offer a convenient way to get a large amount of nutrients all at once. This is particularly useful for people who struggle to consume enough vegetables daily. By drinking greens, you get the benefits of various vegetables, fruits, fibres, and enzymes in one glass.
Daily Super Greens from Vitaminstore, for example, is an ideal mix of 27 different types of vegetables, fruits, fibres, and enzymes. It includes vitamin C from Acerola extract, which helps protect healthy body cells, activates your body's natural energy, and contributes to a good immune system. The powder is rich in antioxidants and also contains the enzyme complex Digezyme® to support digestion. Importantly, these greens are lactose and gluten-free and vegan!
Who can benefit from greens?
Greens can be beneficial for various groups of people:
- Athletes: The high concentration of nutrients helps with recovery after intensive training and energy levels.
- Children: For children who are picky with vegetables, greens can be an easy way to consume more nutrients.
- People with a busy life: If you have a hectic and busy lifestyle, it is often difficult to always eat healthily. Greens help you get additional nutrients on days when it's not possible.
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers: Pregnancy and breastfeeding demand a lot from your body. Greens are then an extra source of various important vitamins and minerals that can support your body well.
Greens during pregnancy and breastfeeding
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is important to get enough nutrients for both the mother and the baby. As a mother, you might find yourself running on empty. Greens can be a valuable addition because they are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, iron, and calcium. Do you still have questions? Feel free to ask one of our Health coaches for advice.
Good to know
Greens are a versatile and convenient way to support your daily nutritional intake. They are rich in essential nutrients and can be easily added to water, smoothies, or shakes. Whether you're an athlete, lead a busy life, or are simply looking for a way to support your health, greens can be a valuable addition to your diet.
Sources
- Lipton, B. (2023). Do You Need a Greens Powder? Here's What the Experts Say. Better Nutrition, NA-NA.
- Andrade, L. M., Andrade, C. J., Dias, M., Nascimento, C., & Mendes, M. A. (2018). Chlorella and spirulina microalgae as sources of functional foods. Nutraceuticals, and Food Supplements, 6(1), 45-58.
