May 07, 2019 · Written by Foodtolive Team
Do Green Powders Actually Work
What Are Green Powders
Green powder is a new way to get your daily recommended amount of vegetables!
They are a dietary supplement made from various plants that have been dried and blended into powder form. The most common vegetables used in green powders are wheat grass, a type of algae called spirulina, kale, and kelp. Green powders also frequently include added ingredients like ginseng and green tea extract for additional health benefits.
Are Green Powders Healthy
Since green powders are a relatively new supplement, there is still some debate as to their exact health benefits. However, studies show that green powders can improve immunity, boost energy levels, increase performance during exercise, assist with nutrient absorption and fat loss, and even help hormonal health.
These benefits are best experienced by those who already have a healthy diet and active lifestyle. The nutrients and plant compounds found in green powders provide additional support for many body functions. Plus, green powders are high in A and C vitamins, which boost the immune system, and contain added probiotics that improve digestive health.
For those who frequently travel or are continually on the go, green powders are a convenient and easy way to make sure your body is getting the vitamins and nutrients it needs.
Can Green Powders Replace Vegetables
While green powders have multiple benefits, they shouldn’t replace real vegetables. Additionally, green powders should only be consumed by those who already have a well-balanced diet.
The reason is that the body handles isolated vitamins like those found in green powder supplements differently than the ones in vegetables in their whole form. When you eat fresh vegetables, your body digests and distributes the nutrients more effectively through your system. The tissues that require the nutrients are better at using these nutrients efficiently. While green powders have their advantages, your body won’t get the same nutrition from them as it would from whole foods.
Eating vegetables as opposed to drinking them can also help keep you from overeating. Vegetables have a lot of water in them, and the process and gratification of chewing help promote fullness and sends signals to your brain to stop eating. On the other hand, drinking your vegetable does not send the same signals to your brain – which could lead to you eating more greens than your body needs. This isn’t an issue per say, it’s just ineffective as your body simply excretes any extra surplus of nutrients
Green powders are also low in fiber, whereas vegetables are a rich source. Some green powders may have added fiber, but it isn’t the same as getting it from vegetables.
So, when it comes to green powders, don’t use them as an excuse to skip on fresh vegetables. Instead, look at them as a supplement to support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. You will get much more benefits from green powder by using it in addition to your regular servings of vegetables.
How to Use Green Powders
When using green powders, always make sure to read the instructions on the label first. The most common way that people use green powders is by mixing them in either water, juice, milk, or even in smoothies.
There are many ways to add green powders to recipes, but heating them decreases or possibly eliminates their nutrients, so stay away from mixing green powders in things like tea, soup, hot scrambled eggs, or similar foods. Use them in vegetable dip, salad dressing, or even tossing roasted vegetables with them are great ways to incorporate it in your diet.
