The video seems to be everywhere :A TikTok user – Sometimes influencer – Blend green powders with water and list health benefits. Many people claim that these powders containing dried green vegetables help reduce bloatingimprove gut health, clear acne more.
These viral videos and other marketing initiatives are making an impact. Green powder is not a new concept, but it is growing in popularity. According to a report published in 2022, “The global green powder market was valued at $255 million in 2020 and is expected to reach $597.4 million by the end of 2027.” industry research.
So what are these powdered veggies and are there any truth to these claimed health benefits? Here’s everything you need to know.
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What is green powder?
Green powders contain dried green vegetable powder and often other substances such as vitamins, minerals, and even digestive enzymes. explain that Samantha Cassetti.
“They could be 20 ingredients, 40 ingredients. Occasionally some have sugar and some don’t, so there are different versions of this,” he says. Shaline D. Rao, MDHe specializes in cardiology at New York University, Langone.
But these products are no substitute for a healthy diet, Rao points out.
Why do people take green powder?
athletic green The company’s website states that its products can “fill in nutritional gaps, promote gut health, and support overall vitality.”
The list of brands with similar healthy promises is long: kiara nutrition, Betterdays Co. Better Greens, bloom, amazing grass green superfood, Sakara Organic Protein + Greens Super Powder – It goes on.
On TikTok, some users with large followers such as Emily PetschThey call themselves “Your Gut Health Guru”. Jana Rogers With over 430,000 followers, he’s experimented with powders in paid ads, which may have helped boost the popularity of these products.
But many brands’ marketing strategies go beyond social media. Athletic Greens, for example, invests in podcast ads with well-known hosts such as Dax Shepard and Tim Ferriss. marketing brew.
Does green powder work?
In short, experts say these powders are unlikely to act as a source of nutritional magic.
However, some studies have shown that certain powders may be potentially beneficial. 2011 study on Greens+ completed “Greens+ may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic disease,” he suggested. 2004 survey The same product had “positive but inconclusive results that Greens+ increases vitality and energy”. was financially backed by Genuine Health, so don’t take it for granted.
“Even if these studies suggest increasing antioxidant levels in the blood, that doesn’t necessarily translate to health benefits.
plus, Supplements are not FDA approved For example, they are not subject to the same regulations as pharmaceuticals.
“(The green powder) is marketed like this quick fix or magic bullet, but when it comes to taking care of our bodies and health, there’s really no quick fix,” Cassetti says.
Gina HamshawHe is a registered dietitian in New York City.
“It’s probably loaded with vitamins and minerals. It might have antioxidants, but it’s not something you’ll feel overnight,” says Hamshaw.
And you shouldn’t use them instead of eating vegetables.
“It would be very difficult to be a perfect replacement,” says Rao. “I think there is a risk of becoming undernourished if you approach it that way.”
are they safe?
Greens are “probably safe” most of the time, says Cassetti.
“I don’t think they are safe, but they may be unnecessary, especially since they are expensive and you can get these nutrients in a budget-friendly way from other foods.
Rao agreed, saying, “I think they’re safe, but this should also be viewed as moderation. That means you should take them as supplements in addition to your diet and be careful not to overdo it.”
And there is a caveat to that rule.
Green powder may not be safe to take on top of other supplements. “Most vitamins and minerals have an upper limit, and taking too much can cause problems and complications,” Cassetty says. says.
Additionally, if you have any chronic health conditions or take medications on a regular basis, you should consult your doctor before trying green powder.
of FDA advice Before purchasing or taking any type of dietary supplement, including powders, consult a health care professional, such as a doctor, nurse, nutritionist, or pharmacist.
Whole foods are better than green powders
Cassetti says most people would rather eat vegetables than consume green powders.
“Just because something has vitamins and minerals and natural ingredients such as green-derived powders doesn’t mean it’s for everyone,” continues Cassetti. , doesn’t mean it will magically bring you benefits…the first step is to really address your diet and other lifestyle factors.”
Getting a better matrix of nutrients from across food sources, explains Cassetty. “While green powder can provide nutrients, it is still a highly processed food containing many different ingredients.
Rao agreed. “I think the best answer is to have a healthy, balanced diet that’s your priority, knowing fresh fruits and vegetables,” Rao said.
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