The 10 Best Greens Powders of 2024: Tested & Reviewed
Navigating the vibrant world of greens powders, these nutrient-dense supplements have become a staple in the health-conscious individual's daily regime. Designed to complement your diet, these powders are not just a random mix but a carefully curated blend of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and often, unique elements like adaptogens. Their primary aim is to seamlessly fill any nutritional voids in our daily eating habits. It's crucial, however, to maintain a balanced perspective: while greens powders are marketed as a shortcut to better gut health, enhanced immunity, increased energy, and a revved-up metabolism, they are supplements at their core, not substitutes for a diet rich in whole foods.
To demystify the choice of the best greens powders in the market, our dedicated team, including health specialists and editorial experts, embarked on an extensive evaluation of 18 different greens powder products. This thorough analysis covered a spectrum of factors such as flavor, texture, after-effects, scent, and overall value for money. Further enriching our assessment, our nutrition editor, backed by professional dietetics credentials, provided an insightful evaluation of each powder’s nutritional value and their standings in third-party testing. This comprehensive approach has led us to confidently present our top 12 greens powder recommendations, each vetted for its quality and efficacy.
Best Overall
Sakara Organic Protein + Greens Super Powder
Our Ratings
Nutrition 5/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 5/5
Texture 4.2/5
Aftertaste 5/5
Why We Like It
For those seeking a greens powder that defies the typical taste profile, the Sakara Organic Protein + Green Super Powder stands out as an exceptional choice. It masterfully blends the nutritional benefits of four different greens while doubling as a protein source, offering a unique and appealing option in the world of greens supplements.
Every serving, conveniently packaged in individual packets, delivers a modest 80 calories and a substantial 12 grams of plant-based protein. While it ranks on the pricier side per serving, we believe the inclusion of additional protein justifies the cost. The convenience of these packets also makes it effortless to incorporate this greens powder into a busy lifestyle.
The composition of this supplement is impressively straightforward, featuring wheatgrass, barley grass, and two types of microalgae: chlorella and spirulina. These microalgae are not only rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties but are also an excellent plant-based source of iron, with each serving providing 21% of the daily value. The formula is further enhanced with organic ingredients like coconut milk powder, vanilla powder, coconut sugar, and stevia leaf extract, alongside the protein and greens blend.
The flavor profile of this greens powder is particularly noteworthy. The dominant vanilla taste, coupled with a refreshing scent of mint and vanilla, masks the typical greens flavor, making it a delightful experience. Its texture, when mixed with water, is surprisingly creamy and smooth, and it pairs equally well with non-dairy or regular milk, offering a versatile and enjoyable way to consume your greens.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 10
Serving Size: 1 sachet (21 grams)
Calories: 80 calories per serving
Added Sugar: Yes, 2 grams total sugar
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Hint of vanilla
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Plant protein blend of organic pea, hemp, and pumpkin protein and greens blend of organic spirulina, wheatgrass, barley grass, and chlorella
Best Savory
Dr. Mercola Fermented Greens Powder
Our Ratings
Nutrition 5/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 3.8/5
Texture 5/5
Aftertaste 1/5
Why We Like It
The Dr. Mercola Fermented Greens Powder is an ideal choice for those who appreciate the authentic, earthy essence of greens in their most natural form. This powder stays true to its roots, eschewing added flavorings, sugars, or fruit enhancements, and instead relies on a subtle touch of stevia and monk fruit for a mild sweetness. The result is a pure greens taste, enriched by the distinct tang that comes from fermentation.
Fermentation isn't just a flavor choice; it's a nutritional strategy. This process enhances the bioavailability and absorption of certain antioxidants, making the nutrients in these greens more accessible than their raw or cooked counterparts. This is a significant benefit for those looking to maximize their nutrient intake.
This greens powder boasts an impressive array of five different fermented blends, including grass, sprout, vegetable, herb, and algae, ensuring a robust profile of green and earthy flavors. A mere teaspoon mixed into water transforms into a deeply green beverage, reminiscent of vegetable bouillon in both aroma and taste.
Not only is this vegan greens powder rich in flavor, but it's also soy-free and USDA-certified organic. Additionally, it provides 30% of the daily value for iron, making it a nutrient-dense choice for those looking to supplement their diet with essential minerals.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 90
Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (3 grams)
Calories: 10 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Original
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: wheatgrass, barley grass, alfalfa grass, oat grass, broccoli, kale, spinach, green cabbage, celery, alfalfa sprouts, cabbage sprouts, broccoli sprouts, cauliflower sprout, kale sprouts, moringa, matcha, Tulsi (holy basil), mate leaf extract, parsley, peppermint, rosemary spirulina, and chlorella.
Best for Athletes
BioSteel Sport Greens
Our Ratings
Nutrition 4.5/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 4.2/5
Texture 5/5
Aftertaste 4/5
Why We Like It
The BioSteel Sport Greens is a versatile and nutrient-rich choice, especially suited for athletes. Available in three distinct flavors, each scoop of this powder packs only 25 calories but is loaded with 20 whole food ingredients. This includes a diverse mix of land and sea greens, fruits, and an antioxidant blend featuring green tea. The inclusion of black pepper and inulin further enhances absorption and digestion, making it an efficiently formulated product.
What sets this powder apart is its unique recovery blend, which combines quercetin, turmeric, and astaxanthin with amino acids like glutamine and leucine. This composition makes it an outstanding option for athletes. While the amount of quercetin in each serving is less than what's typically used in studies, it's still a valuable component known for reducing muscle soreness and damage.
This greens powder is particularly recommended for competitive athletes due to its NSF Certification for Sport. This certification ensures that the product has been rigorously tested for purity, potency, and is free from contaminants and substances banned by international sports organizations.
In terms of usability, the powder excels in mixability, blending smoothly with water without leaving a gritty texture or powder clumps. Our testing with the acai lemon flavor revealed a refreshing taste akin to minty fruit punch, with a subtle earthy undertone. While it's perfectly enjoyable with water, its flavor profile also makes it a great candidate for blending into fruit smoothies, offering a delicious and nutritious addition to an athlete's diet.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 1 scoop (10.2 grams)
Calories: 25 calories per serving
Added Sugar: Yes, 1 gram
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Pineapple Coconut, Acai lemon, Pomegranate berry
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Spirulina, barley grass, alfalfa, broccoli, spinach, kale, quercetin, turmeric, astaxanthin combined with glutamine and leucine, inulin and black pepper, goji, maqui berry, camu camu, tart cherry, blueberry, and green tea.
Best Fruit Flavor
KOS Show Me the Greens Powder
Our Ratings
Nutrition 4.5/5
Third-Party Testing 3/5
Flavor 5/5
Texture 4/5
Aftertaste 4.3/5
Why We Like It
The KOS Show Me the Greens Powder offers a delightful divergence from the typical greens powder flavor profile, presenting a green apple taste reminiscent of a green Jolly Rancher candy. Each scoop, containing just 30 calories, is a blend of algae, greens, fruits, vegetables, and prebiotics. Its appealing fruity flavor is primarily derived from organic apples, stevia, monk fruit, and mint, ensuring that no added sugars are involved.
However, the texture of this supplement slightly falls short of perfection. When mixed with water, it generally achieves a smooth consistency, but a hint of graininess is noticeable, along with some residual clumps at the bottom of the glass. Nevertheless, this minor textural issue is not significant enough to detract from its overall appeal.
KOS particularly recommends this greens powder for those who are not fond of the taste of vegetables, including children and picky eaters. The flavor, aptly named green apple sorbet, successfully masks any earthy greens taste, making it an enjoyable option for those who usually shy away from greens powders.
In terms of certifications, the powder is USDA certified organic and vegan, and it's produced in an NSF certified facility. However, it's important to note that it does not undergo third-party testing for ingredient purity and accuracy. Despite this, its delicious flavor and quality certifications make it a viable and enjoyable option for those looking to add greens to their diet without the typical vegetable taste.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 28
Serving Size: 1 scoop (9.5 grams)
Calories: (# calories per serving)
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Green Apple Sorbet
Third-Party Tested: No
Active Ingredients: Wheatgrass, oat grass, chlorella, spirulina, kale, broccoli, green bell pepper, cabbage, lemon, mint, isomalto-oligosaccharise, and acacia gum.
Best Single Ingredient
True Grace Broccoli Microgreens
Our Ratings
Nutrition 5/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 5/5
Texture 5/5
Aftertaste 5/5
Why We Like It
True Grace's Broccoli Microgreens Powder demonstrates that simplicity can be remarkably effective in the world of greens powders. With a singular ingredient – broccoli microgreens – this powder offers a concentrated source of potent plant compounds, notably glucosinolates. Research highlights the potential of these compounds to play a role in reducing the development and growth of various cancers, including prostate, breast, skin, urinary, and colon cancer.
For broccoli enthusiasts, this greens powder is a perfect match. Each serving, a modest ¼ teaspoon, subtly infuses water with the light scent and taste of broccoli, without altering the texture. This mild flavor profile makes it not only palatable on its own but also an easy addition to soups, smoothies, or other beverages, enhancing them without overwhelming their original taste.
The nutritional equivalence is impressive – one serving of this powder is akin to ¾ cup of fresh broccoli microgreens. While consuming this amount of fresh microgreens daily is feasible, their short shelf life and the risk associated with commercially sold sprouts, like salmonella outbreaks, make the powder a more practical and safer choice.
In terms of certifications and safety, this broccoli powder excels. It's vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, and USDA-certified organic. Furthermore, it's soil-grown, a method claimed by the manufacturer to boost nutrient content in both the plants and soil. The powder undergoes thorough third-party testing for heavy metals, microbes, potency, identity, and adulteration, ensuring its quality and safety for consumption.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 0.25 teaspoon (0.4 grams)
Calories: 0 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: None
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Broccoli microgreen
Best Texture
Your Super Super Green Mix
Our Ratings
Flavor 5/5
Texture 5/5
Aftertaste 4/5
Smell 5/5
Value 5/5
Why We Like It
Your Super's Super Green Mix stands out in the realm of multi-green powders for its unadulterated purity. Completely devoid of added sweeteners, flavors, or fillers, each serving delivers nothing but pure greens. The simplicity of its composition, featuring just six ingredients, is commendable. It includes unique components not commonly found in other greens powders, such as moringa and baobab. Moringa is noted for its bioactive compounds that benefit conditions like high blood pressure, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and inflammation. Baobab, an exotic fruit, is lauded for its rich antioxidant content and inflammation-fighting properties.
The sensory experience of this powder is unmistakably natural. It's green in every sense – in color, aroma, and taste, offering a grassy and earthy flavor profile. The recommended two-teaspoon serving in four ounces of water creates a perfect "wellness shot," blending seamlessly without any gritty texture or residue. Each serving contains only 20 calories but is distinctively high in fiber, with two grams per serving, a notable feature that sets it apart from other greens powders.
In terms of certifications and safety, Your Super Super Green Mix is USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, plant-based, and free from common allergens like gluten, corn, peanuts, and soy. The transparency of the brand is evident, as they disclose the country of origin for each ingredient and ensure that all components are third-party tested for quality.
It’s important to note, however, that the natural, earthy taste of this greens powder may not appeal to everyone. Given its lack of additional sweeteners or flavors, it may be best consumed as a concentrated "wellness shot" or mixed into a flavored smoothie or other beverages to complement its robust, green profile.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 2 teaspoons (5 grams)
Calories: 20 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: None
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Wheatgrass, barley grass, moringa, baobab, spirulina, chlorella
Best for Smoothies
Ora Organic Easy Being Green
Our Ratings
Flavor 3/5
Texture 3/5
Aftertaste 5/5
Smell 4/5
Value 4/5
Why We Like It
Ora Organic's Easy Being Green stands out with its nutrient-dense profile, packing a variety of whole food ingredients in every serving. It notably provides over 9% of the daily value for vitamins A, C, and K, alongside 2 grams of fiber. The powder is flavored with orange, and while it exudes a citrusy aroma, the taste leans more towards a pleasant green profile without a strong orange flavor. Its thick consistency when mixed with water makes it an excellent candidate for smoothies, a trait likely attributed to the inclusion of tapioca oligosaccharides in its digestive adaptogens and prebiotics blend.
However, despite its array of beneficial ingredients like wheatgrass, chlorella, celery, and kale, it's important to exercise caution due to the presence of certain herbal components that could interact with medications or pose risks for specific health conditions. For instance, ashwagandha, an adaptogen included for stress management, may have adverse interactions with medications used for diabetes, high blood pressure, immunosuppressants, sedatives, and thyroid hormones.
Ora’s Easy Being Green is certified by several reputable standards, including USDA organic, non-GMO, vegan, and being free from dairy, gluten, and soy. To ensure the highest quality and safety, the product undergoes third-party testing, and a detailed certificate of analysis is available for all their products, affirming their purity and potency.
It's important to highlight that due to its thicker texture, this powder is best mixed into smoothies rather than water. Additionally, given the inclusion of adaptogens, it's prudent to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating this supplement into your regimen, especially if you are on medication.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 1 scoop (8 grams)
Calories: 30 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Orange
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Barley and wheat grass juice powder, alfalfa leaf powder, oat grass powder, spinach, kale, broccoli, cabbage, chlorella, dandelion leaf, parsley, cilantro, celery, green bell pepper, leek, dulse, sea kelp, tapioca oligosaccharides, ashwagandha, Triphal
Best Neutral Flavor
Primal Harvest Primal Greens
Our Ratings
Flavor 3.8/5
Texture 4.3/5
Aftertaste 5/5
Smell 4/5
Value 5/5
Why We Like It
Primal Harvest Primal Greens distinguishes itself with its agreeable earthy flavor and subtle natural sweetness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a neutral, unflavored greens powder. Among its peers, this product stands out as one of our favorites for its easy mixability with water, avoiding an overly thick texture or powdery mouthfeel. However, it's worth noting that there is a noticeable amount of sediment left at the bottom of the glass after consumption.
This greens powder is enriched with adaptogens, mushrooms, and probiotics, along with digestive enzymes, all geared towards supporting gut health. While the inclusion of probiotics and digestive enzymes may be beneficial for some, it's important to recognize that these ingredients might not suit everyone. Nutrition expert Sauceda emphasizes that a diverse diet rich in fruits and vegetables is crucial for a healthy gut microbiome and that greens powders are no substitute for such a diet. She also points out that most individuals naturally produce sufficient digestive enzymes, suggesting that a deficiency in these enzymes could indicate a need for medical attention.
Before integrating this supplement into your routine, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are on medication, consulting with a doctor is imperative. The presence of various adaptogens and herbs, combined with a lack of detailed ingredient quantities, can complicate the assessment of potential medication interactions.
It's important to be aware that the numerous herbs and functional ingredients in this powder may interact with medications, and the exact amounts of some components aren't specified. Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting with a healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions before using this product.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 1 scoops (8 grams)
Calories: 34 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Original (green)
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Superfood, Antioxidant and Mushroom Blend (including alfalfa leaf, wheat grass, spinach, spirulina coconut juice, broccoli, blueberry, camu camu fruit, reishi mushroom, shitake mushroom, maitake mushroom, etc), Nutrient Dense Natural Herbs and Extracts (including, acerola cherry extract, turmeric root, green tea leaf, ashwagandha root, etc) Digestive Complex (including apple fiber, inulin, etc), Probiotic Blend (including B. longum, L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus).
Best Value
Garden of Life Raw Organic Perfect Food
Our Ratings
Nutrition 4/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 4/5
Texture 3/5
Aftertaste 4/5
Why We Like It
Garden of Life Raw Organic Perfect Food Green Superfood Original Powder emerges as an excellent budget-friendly choice in the greens powder market. It's a quality option that doesn't compromise on taste, offering a pleasant flavor experience. The composition of this mix is particularly noteworthy, predominantly featuring whole fruits, vegetables, sprouted grains, and seeds. It also includes probiotics, which may be beneficial for some users but unnecessary for others.
A significant advantage of this powder is its ingredient list, which comprises over 40 components but notably lacks herbal products or adaptogens. This aspect potentially makes it a safer option for individuals with health conditions or those taking medications, though consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement is always advisable.
In terms of taste, this greens powder strikes a balance between fruity and grassy notes, with a slightly bitter aftertaste that quickly dissipates. However, one issue we observed is the formation of clumpy sediment at the bottom of the glass after mixing with water. This residue suggests that the powder might be better suited for blending into smoothies to ensure that all the nutrients are consumed and not wasted. Alternatively, if mixed with water, it might require more thorough and frequent stirring to avoid sedimentation.
It's important to note that due to the tendency of this powder to form clumps, its suitability might be higher for smoothie blending rather than simple water mixing to avoid losing out on any of its beneficial components.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: 1 scoop (6.9 grams)
Calories: 25 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Original, apple, chocolate, and lemon ginger
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Organic U.S.A. Farmed Green Juice Blend (including barley grass juice, organic oat grass juice, etc), Organic Fruit & Veggie Juice Antioxidant Blend (including, apple, broccoli, tart cherry, brussels sprout, etc), Organic Sprout Blend (including, flax meal, lentil, chia seed, sesame seed sprouts, etc) Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend (including, lipase, papain, bacillus subtilis de111®, organic pineapple flavor, etc).
Best Comprehensive Nutrition
AG1 by Athletic Greens
Why We Like It
AG1 distinguishes itself in the greens powder market with an impressive array of 75 ingredients, positioning it as a comprehensive nutritional drink. While experts caution against relying solely on greens powders for health, AG1 notably provides 100% of the daily value for vitamins C, E, seven of the eight B vitamins, and zinc. It also serves as a good source of several other vitamins and minerals, making it a potential substitute for a multivitamin, although individual health needs should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
In addition to its vitamin and mineral content, AG1 includes 7.2 billion CFU of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, two well-known beneficial probiotics. However, the sheer number of ingredients does not inherently enhance the product's efficacy. The lack of specific dosage information for each ingredient, as highlighted by nutrition expert DeLaurentis, poses a challenge in understanding the exact composition of what's being consumed.
Taste-wise, AG1 offers a slightly sweet and earthy flavor without any bitterness. It mixes well with water, creating a creamy texture, though it's noted that some sediment remains at the bottom of the glass even after vigorous stirring.
AG1's NSF Certified for Sport designation ensures that it is free from contaminants and has undergone rigorous quality and purity testing. The product is also vegan and free from GMOs, pesticides, artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, and sweeteners. It contains no gluten, dairy, corn, egg, peanuts, lactose, sucrose, or dextrose, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
However, it's important to note that the inclusion of various herbs and adaptogens in AG1 could lead to potential interactions with medications or specific medical conditions. Therefore, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before incorporating this product into your daily regimen.
Product Details
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: (1 scoop (12 grams)
Calories: (50 calories per serving)
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: None
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Superfood complex (such as organic spirulina, inulin, organic wheat grass juice powder, green tea extract, etc), Herbs and Antioxidants (such as alkaline pea protein isolate, artichoke leaf extract, rhodiola root, ashwagandha root extract, etc), Digestive Enzyme & Super Mushroom Complex (including, bromelain, reishi and shiitake mushroom powders), Dairy-free probiotics (including, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum).
Best Matcha-Like Flavor
Amazing Grass Greens Blend
Our Ratings
Nutrition 4/5
Third-Party Testing 5/5
Flavor 5/5
Texture 4/5
Aftertaste 5/5
Why We Like It
Amazing Grass Greens Blend, with its original flavor, remarkably echoes the experience of sipping a matcha drink from a coffee shop. For those who already relish the taste of matcha tea, this greens powder can be a delightful addition to their routine, bringing the added perks of antioxidants, fiber, and digestive support with each serving. However, the texture of this powder might be a point of consideration. Despite stirring for a minute, it tends to remain grainy and leaves clumps at the bottom of the glass.
Each scoop of Amazing Grass Greens Blend, contributing just 30 calories, includes a green food blend, an antioxidant blend, three grams of fiber sourced from flax seed and apple pectin, and a combination of digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics. While the supplement is designed to support a healthy digestive system, it's important to note that the added enzymes and prebiotics might lead to digestive discomfort for some individuals.
This greens powder is thoroughly vetted, being third-party tested. It also prides itself on being non-GMO, vegan, and free from added sugars, aligning with various dietary preferences and health-conscious choices.
However, it's important to be aware that the blend of digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics present in this powder could potentially cause digestive irregularities in some people. As with any supplement, individual responses can vary, so it's advisable to consider your own digestive sensitivity when choosing this product.
Product Details:
Servings per Container: 30
Serving Size: (1 scoop (8 grams)
Calories: 30 calories per serving
Added Sugar: No
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Original, berry, chocolate
Third-Party Tested: No
Active Ingredients: Wheat grass, barley grass, alfalfa grass, spinach, spirulina, chlorella, broccoli, rose hips, pineapple, carrot, acerola cherry extract, green tea leaf extract, acai berry, organic beetroot, raspberry, maca root, flax seed, pectin, fructooligosaccharides, amylase, protease, lipase, lactase, cellulase, Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Best with Protein
Sprout Living Epic Protein Green Kingdom
Our Ratings
Flavor 3/5
Texture 1/5
Aftertaste 3.8/5
Smell 2/5
Value 4/5
Why We Like It
Sprout Living Epic Protein Green Kingdom stands out as a dual-function supplement, offering the benefits of both a protein powder and a greens powder. Each serving packs a substantial 140 calories, four grams of fiber, and an impressive 20 grams of protein. The powder includes a variety of greens such as moringa leaf, spinach, spirulina, chlorella, broccoli, along with other whole food ingredients, making it a nutrient-rich choice.
In terms of nutritional value, a single serving provides 40% of the daily value of iron, 14% DV of sodium, 15% DV of potassium, and 8% CV of calcium. This nutrient profile makes it an ideal post-exercise beverage, catering to the body's needs for extra hydration and protein replenishment after a workout.
However, achieving the full 20 grams of protein requires two scoops of powder, which we found challenging to blend smoothly into 8 ounces of water as recommended on the package. The result is a somewhat chalky texture and a very earthy flavor, which may not be to everyone's liking. To improve both the texture and taste, we recommend blending this powder into a smoothie. The addition of frozen fruit and other ingredients can enhance the overall drinking experience, making it more palatable. The texture was chalky when mixed with the recommended eight ounces of water, so it may be best blended into a smoothie.
Sprout Living Epic Protein Greens is certified by several reputable standards, including USDA organic, vegan, and Kosher. It's also an allergy-friendly option, being free from grains, soy, gluten, and nuts. Their commitment to quality is further demonstrated by their practice of third-party testing, as stated on their website, ensuring the product's safety and efficacy.
Product Details
Servings per Container: 24
Serving Size: 2 scoops (38 grams)
Calories: 140 calories per serving
Added Sugar: Yes, less than 0.5 grams
Vegan: Yes
Flavors: Green Kingdom
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Active Ingredients: Acerola, baobab fruit, broccoli, broccoli sprouts, carrot, chlorella, coconut sugar, cranberry seed, Jerusalem artichoke root, kale, lucuma fruit, moringa leaf, pea protein, pink Himalayan salt, pumpkin seed protein, red banana, sacha inchi protein, spinach, spirulina, stevia leaf, sunflower seed protein, tomato
Deciding Whether to Take Greens Powders
Greens powders can be beneficial for some, but they're not universally necessary. As Sauceda points out, they offer an enjoyable way to supplement nutrients but shouldn't be relied upon as a primary nutrient source. Consider greens powders in the following situations:
If you're a picky eater: For those struggling to incorporate a diverse range of fruits and vegetables into their diet, greens powders offer a straightforward solution for a nutrient boost. The USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest a daily intake of 1.5-2 cups of fruit and 2-3 cups of vegetables. Falling short of these recommendations, greens powders can help bridge nutritional gaps, according to DeLaurentis.
During travel: Maintaining a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can be challenging while traveling. Travel-size packs of greens powders, as Sauceda notes, are a convenient way to enhance your nutrient intake on the go. However, it's still important to seek fiber-rich foods, as most greens powders are low in fiber.
Despite these benefits, experts agree that greens powders are not a financial necessity. Whole fruits and vegetables, including frozen and canned options, offer greater nutrient density, satisfaction, and are more budget-friendly, as Galati emphasizes.
Caution is advised in certain circumstances:
If you have a medical condition: Greens powders often contain a wide range of ingredients, including herbs and adaptogens, which could pose risks for individuals with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, liver, or kidney disease. The lack of detailed ingredient quantities in most powders makes it hard to assess potential health impacts.
If you're on medications: Herbal components and high levels of vitamins and minerals in greens powders can interfere with various medications, from birth control to blood thinners and antidepressants. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any supplement, particularly greens powders.
If you have a sensitive stomach: For those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or prone to bloating and gas, greens powders might exacerbate symptoms. Galati notes that many powders include "digestive blends" with ingredients like inulin or broccoli powder, which can irritate sensitive digestive systems.
Our Perspective on Greens Powders
While whole foods remain the ideal source of greens, greens powders can be a practical supplement in certain scenarios, like when you're pressed for time, traveling, or lack access to fresh greens. Sakara Life Greens + Proteins emerged as our top pick due to its high-quality ingredients, appealing taste and texture, and the inclusion of protein, a rare find in greens powders. For those new to greens powders seeking a more affordable option, Garden of Life's greens powder offers similar benefits at a fraction of the cost. As the market evolves, we're committed to updating our recommendations to spotlight standout products.
Understanding Greens Powder Production
Greens powders typically involve freeze-drying or dehydrating whole foods and herbs, retaining most of their nutritional value. While freeze-drying is known to preserve more nutrients than heat-drying, many greens powders don't specify their drying process. Plant extracts, another common component, are made by dissolving plant matter in a solvent to concentrate beneficial compounds. However, extracts vary and aren't standardized, making third-party testing for purity and potency a key selling point.
Key Ingredients to Consider
Careful examination of a supplement's ingredient list and nutrition facts is crucial. Consult a healthcare provider to review the supplement's ingredients and potential interactions with other supplements or medications. Common ingredients like greens can be problematic for those on blood-thinning medication, as many greens powders are high in vitamin K, which affects blood clotting.
Determining the Right Amount
Greens powders don't have a standardized dosage, and while some manufacturers provide dietary reference intakes (DRIs) on labels, not all do. For vitamins and minerals, only certain nutrients like vitamin D, potassium, calcium, and iron are mandated to be listed on nutrition facts panels.
How to Consume Greens Powders
Greens powders are versatile, designed to be mixed with liquids like water, milk, or blended into smoothies, soups, or even baked goods. Timing of consumption can vary, especially if the powder contains specific ingredients like caffeine or melatonin.
Potential Benefits of Greens Powders
Rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals, greens powders can support various aspects of health, including immunity, metabolism, and cell health. They offer an easy way to access greens like spirulina and chlorella, high in antioxidants but less common in American diets. Some also contain probiotics, potentially aiding gut health, though there's no one-size-fits-all probiotic supplement.
Addressing Common Questions
Are greens powders good for you? Greens powders can supplement your diet but shouldn't replace whole fruits and vegetables, which are more nutrient-dense, satisfying, and cost-effective.
Is it safe to take greens powders? For healthy individuals not on medications, greens powders are generally safe. However, their safety can vary based on formulation and ingredients. It's advisable to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have medical conditions, allergies, stomach sensitivities, or are on medications.
Are greens powders worth it? Prices vary, and some may replace multivitamins or protein powders, adding value. However, given that many lack significant calories, fiber, protein, or other key nutrients, fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables might be a better investment for a limited food budget.
