1. Nutrient Density
One of the most significant benefits of powdered greens is their nutrient density. They concentrate the vitamins and minerals of several servings of vegetables into a single, convenient serving. This is particularly advantageous for individuals struggling to consume enough vegetables throughout the day.
2. Antioxidant Content
Powdered greens are a treasure trove of antioxidants. These vital substances are natural "scavengers" of free radicals – unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage as part of oxidative stress. By neutralising these free radicals, the antioxidants in powdered greens play a crucial role in protecting our cells.
Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich foods can help mitigate the risk of many chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The variety of antioxidants in greens powders often includes vitamins A, C, and E, as well as other compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids. These nutrients work collectively to bolster the body's defense system against oxidative damage and support overall health and longevity.
3. Digestive Health
When it comes to digestive wellness, fibre is a superstar nutrient, and powdered greens are an excellent source. The fibre content in these supplements supports the digestive process, adding bulk to stools and promoting regular bowel movements. This can be incredibly beneficial in preventing constipation and maintaining a healthy digestive tract.
But fibre doesn't just keep things moving; it also feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, collectively known as the gut microbiome. A flourishing microbiome is associated with improved digestion, better absorption of nutrients, and even a stronger immune system. Plus, a well-nourished microbiome can have positive effects on mood and energy levels, thanks to the gut-brain axis.
The inclusion of probiotics in some greens powders adds another layer of digestive aid, fostering a balanced gut microbiome that enhances nutrient absorption and bolsters your body’s defense against pathogens.
4. Strengthened Immunity
The rich array of vitamins found in powdered greens, including the likes of Vitamin C and D, alongside essential minerals such as Zinc, work in tandem to fortify your immune system. Naturally occurring compounds from health-boosting mushrooms like reishi and shiitake also play a part in enhancing your body's defenses, helping you fend off illnesses more effectively.
5. Rejuvenated Skin and Hair
Powdered greens are teeming with antioxidants, which help protect your skin from the damaging effects of oxidative stress, and with a spectrum of vitamins that nurture skin and hair from within. Consistent intake can help maintain the skin's natural glow and keep your hair strong and resilient.
6. Reduced Stress
Within the complex blend of powdered greens, you'll often find adaptogens such as ashwagandha. These remarkable herbs have been used for centuries to help reduce stress and balance cortisol levels, promoting a sense of calm and wellbeing that can help you navigate your busy life with more ease.
7. Better Sleep
Essential minerals like Magnesium, present in powdered greens, are known for their calming effects on the nervous system, preparing your body for a restful night's sleep. Traditional ingredients such as reishi mushroom are also valued for their potential to enhance sleep quality, making them a valuable component of any greens blend.
8. Enhanced Energy
Say goodbye to mid-afternoon slumps with the energising mix of B-Vitamins in powdered greens, which are crucial for converting food into fuel. Additionally, natural energy boosters like Panax ginseng can invigorate your body, providing sustained energy that helps you stay active and engaged throughout the day.
9. Convenience
In our fast-paced lives, convenience is king. Powdered greens provide a quick and easy way to increase our veggie intake without the need for extensive meal prep.
Nutrient Absorption from Powdered Greens
When it comes to supplements, the body's ability to absorb the nutrients is a crucial factor. After all, the health benefits of any food or supplement depend not just on the nutrients it contains but also on how well your body can take them in.
Greens powders normally do, and should contain natural ingredients sourced from whole foods like superfoods and fruit, which gives them an advantage in terms of nutrient absorption because that’s what your body prefers.
1. Does processing Greens affect nutrient absorption?
Greens powders are whole foods, herbs, and fruits processed into powder form. As we’ve discussed in our recent article “does blending fruit destroy nutrients?” ; this doesn’t mean all the goodness loses its nutritional value. Otherwise, chewing food would mean that you’re losing the nutrients on the way down.
However, it is true that some processing can affect the nutrients; particularly heat can destroy Vitamin C and probiotics.
Greens companies will take this into mind and opt for a production process that affects nutrients minimally. Many nutrients will also become even more bioavailable than from whole foods, while for some this isn’t the case.
2. Bioavailability of Nutrients
The term 'bioavailability' refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is digested, absorbed, and made available for use by the body. Powdered greens are designed with bioavailability in mind, often including nutrient forms that the body can easily absorb.
3. Enzymes and Cofactors
Some powdered greens formulas also contain digestive enzymes or co-factors that aid in nutrient absorption. These additions can help break down the compounds, making it easier for the body to assimilate the vitamins and minerals present in the powder. For example, Verve V80 contains black pepper extract to make the other nutrients more available.
4. Factors That Affect Absorption
It's important to note that individual factors such as age, health status, and gut health can influence nutrient absorption. For example, as we age, our bodies may become less efficient at absorbing certain nutrients.
The quality of the powdered greens also plays a role in absorption. High-quality, well-sourced ingredients are more likely to be free from contaminants that could interfere with their absorption.
The Importance of Transparency
While powdered greens can be a powerhouse of nutrition, not all greens are created equal.
Transparency in labelling is critical when choosing a powdered greens supplement.
Companies that fully disclose their ingredient list and dosages allow consumers to know exactly what they're consuming and how much of it. This ensures you're getting the right doses of the ingredients that your body needs.
Some companies use proprietary blends, which basically means they tell you what ingredients are inside - but the specific quantities are hidden. So, a company could make claims such as; “Contains all essential vitamins” “Contains Ashwagandha” “Contains over 16 superfoods”', even though they are underdosed. Quite often, these companies will put a tiny bit of the most expensive ingredient, and fill up the rest with less expensive ingredients.
On the other hand, A transparent product will list all the ingredients and their amounts, providing you with the confidence that you're indeed getting a nutrient-rich supplement, allowing for informed decisions.
Furthermore, A brand that values transparency is more likely to invest in quality ingredients and production processes.
