All About Greens: Here's What You Need to Know

Greens have become increasingly popular in recent years, for a very logical reason. This blend of vegetable, fruit, and algae powders provides an easy way to get an extra dose of nutrients, contributing 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 exactly what greens are, the ingredients commonly found in greens, and their benefits. We'll discuss various ways to use them, from adding them to smoothies and juices to incorporating them into meals.

What Are Greens?

Greens are a collection of various vegetable, algae, and grass powders that are packed with nutrients. These supplements have gained popularity due to their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibres. They offer an easy way to include extra nutrients in your daily diet. Especially for those with a busy life or who find it challenging to eat enough vegetables, this can sometimes be a solution. 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 (depending, of course, on what exactly is in the greens) a wide range of benefits due to their rich nutritional profile:

1. Immune System Support: The high concentrations of vitamins such as vitamin C (from various natural vegetable and fruit powders) support the immune system and activate the body's natural energy.
2. Natural Detoxification: Ingredients like chlorella have a beneficial effect on the function of the gallbladder, liver, and kidneys (organs with a detoxifying function). In this way, chlorella promotes the detoxification of the body.
3. Digestive Support: Many greens contain fibres (such as rye, sugar beet, oat grain, barley grain fibres) and enzymes that support digestion and contribute to the gut flora.*
4. Energy Levels: Due to the rich nutrients in, for example, spirulina, many people feel more energetic and vital. Green tea and vitamin C also support energy levels.

Superfoods and Greens: What Are the Differences?

Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods, 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 rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals.

Chlorella and Spirulina in Greens

Chlorella and spirulina are two popular ingredients commonly found in greens. And for good reason. Chlorella, a green single-celled freshwater alga, is known for its detoxifying properties and high concentrations of proteins, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals such as iron. Spirulina, like chlorella, contains an abundance of proteins and important vitamins such as B1, B2, and B3. It also helps you feel more energetic. The question of whether spirulina or chlorella is better often arises. Both have unique benefits and together form a strong 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. Too many greens can lead to digestive issues, so it's important to follow the recommended dosage. Read the label for guidance.

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 for a quick and easy boost. This is the simplest way to use greens and is especially convenient if you're in a hurry. The taste may 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 slightly soften the taste of the greens. Try a combination of banana, spinach, avocado, and a scoop of greens powder for a great start to the day.
• Protein Shakes: Greens can also be added to protein shakes, especially after exercise to support recovery and energy levels. After an intensive workout, your body needs proteins for your muscles. Greens then provide additional vitamins and minerals.
• In Soups and Sauces: A creative way to add greens to your diet is by mixing them into soups and sauces. This can increase the nutritional value of your meals without significantly changing the taste. Add the greens once the soup has cooled slightly.
• Baking: Although less common, you can also add greens powder to baking recipes such as muffins, pancakes, or bread. This can be a simple way to get extra nutrients, especially if you have children who are picky with vegetables. Keep in mind that the colour of your baked goods may change due to the green powder.

Greens: Extra Portion of Vegetables in One Glass

Greens offer a convenient way to get a large amount of nutrients at once. This is especially useful for people who find it difficult to eat 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 is, for instance, an ideal mix of 27 different types of vegetables, fruits, fibres, and enzymes. You will find vitamin C from Acerola extract, which helps protect healthy body cells, activates your body's natural energy, and contributes to good resistance. 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 Are Greens Useful For?

Greens can be a solution for various groups of people:

1. Athletes: The high concentration of nutrients helps with recovery after intensive training and increases energy levels.
2. Children: For children who are picky with vegetables, greens can be an easy way to get more nutrients.
3. People with a Busy Life: If you have a hectic and busy lifestyle, it's often challenging to always eat healthily. Greens help you get enough nutrients on days when it’s not possible.
4. Pregnant Women and Breastfeeding Mothers: A pregnancy and breastfeeding demand a lot from your body. Greens are then an extra source of various important vitamins and minerals that your body can use 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 may sometimes overlook yourself. Greens can be a valuable addition as they are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, iron, and calcium. If you have questions, feel free to ask one of our Health coaches for advice.

Good to Know

Greens are a versatile and convenient way to improve your daily nutrient 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 improve your health, greens can be a valuable addition to your diet. Try them today and discover how they can enhance your energy levels and overall well-being.

Sources

1. Lipton, B. (2023). Do You Need a Greens Powder? Here's What the Experts Say. Better Nutrition, NA-NA.
2. 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.