FRUIT & VEGETABLE SUPPLEMENTS
Fruit and vegetable powders are dietary supplements that you can mix into water and other liquids as well as take in capsule form. They are typically red or green in color and can have a grassy or fruity taste. Natural sugar substitutes are often added to improve flavor. The fruits and vegetables used in these supplements are generally dried and then ground into powder. Alternatively, some ingredients may be juiced, then dehydrated, or certain components of the whole food may be extracted. A newer trend is to sprout or ferment ingredients, which increases vitamin levels and helps break down compounds that can interfere with mineral absorption. The formulations are often vegan, as well as non-genetically modified and organic – but check the product label for these details or ask one of our knowledgeable staff members.
If you’re among the 90% of American adults failing to meet the CDC’s recommendations for a healthy diet, you’re likely curious about the recent boom in fruit and vegetable supplements. Are they effective? Can they provide you with the same nutrition as fresh produce? And which ones are the best choices for your particular lifestyle and dietary habits?
A Supplement Worth Considering
The nutrients and plant compounds in greens powders may support overall wellness when used in combination with a healthy diet and lifestyle. For example, greens powders are typically high in vitamins A and C, which help support immune function. Additionally, probiotics added to greens powders may support immune function and digestive health.
May Help Prevent Chronic Disease
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of plant compounds in greens powder may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases. In one four-week study in 10 healthy people, two tablespoons (10 grams) of greens powder taken daily lowered blood levels of oxidatively damaged proteins by 30%.vPreventing damage to blood proteins like enzymes is important, as they perform functions that help protect you from cancer and chronic diseases.vIn another 90-day study in 40 people with high blood pressure, two tablespoons (10 grams) of greens powder taken daily decreased both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by about 8%.
May Improve Your Energy
Some greens powders claim to boost your energy. Yet, they’re generally low in calories and, therefore, don’t necessarily supply much energy. However, some of these powders contain compounds that may help you feel more alert and energetic, including green tea extract, which contains caffeine and plant compounds that support the burning of calories. In a three-month study of 63 healthy women, those taking one tablespoon (10 grams) of greens powder containing green tea extract daily reported significant increases in energy, while the placebo group reported no change.
