Greens Powders

What are greens powders?
"Superfood greens powders are a powdered blend of fruits and veggies that provide a nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich product to support optimal health," says Lauren O'Connor, MS, RD, owner of Nutri Savvy Health.

Greens powders are often made "from leafy greens, green tea, dark berries, or other antioxidant-rich foods," says Amanda A. Kostro Miller, RD, LDN, who serves on the advisory board for Smart Healthy Living. They can either be a blend of just powdered green vegetables or powdered greens with other supplements like protein powder or probiotics.

Are greens powders healthy?
Greens powders tout their nutrient-dense benefits, but are they really as healthy as you perceive them to be? "It is important to note that taking green powder should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains," Kostro says.

Instead, "think of superfood green powders as nutrition supplements. There is minimal regulation by the FDA over supplements, so it is difficult to know exactly what you are getting and how potent it may be. There is also limited research in regards to getting antioxidants from supplements rather than food," she adds.

With that being said, Kostro Miller does admit that adding greens powders into your daily routine can give food or drinks a boost of flavor, color, and even help you slip some extra antioxidants into your diet.

Greens powder side effects.
Greens powders follow the standard rule: too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. "If you are on Warfarin/Coumadin blood thinners and start taking high doses of green foods/supplements (that may be rich in vitamin K), your medications may need to be adjusted (and you have to then be very consistent with your vitamin K intake)," says Kostro Miller.

"Also, while you may think that more vitamins and minerals equate to better health, those with kidney conditions can actually cause more harm than good if they get too much of certain nutrients," Kostro Miller warns.

Always consult with your doctor or nutritionist before adding these powders to your diet.