There is an abundance of greens powders on the market these days, but are they actually helpful and if so which ones are the best for you? Read on if you want to find out more and learn about the ingredients that are actually useful.
Which is the best greens powder in Australia for anti-aging?
Some of the ingredients that are helpful when it comes to fighting signs of aging are Spirulina, Barley Grass, and Vitamin K.
Additionally to that, ingredients that are rich in vitamin C can also be very helpful in improving collagen synthesis, helping improve the appearance of your skin.
Spirulina is a superfood that is rich in anti-aging nutrients and antioxidants. Phycocyanin is the main active ingredient that helps activate cellular antioxidant activity and helps eliminate free radicals.
Spirulina also contains anti-inflammatory properties which can help with bloating or gut discomfort. Bloating becomes more problematic in women over 35 or even sometimes younger due to various hormonal changes or diet imbalances.
Barley grass contains Vitamin A and Vitamin C and helps carry free radicals out of the body in turn helping reduce the loss of skin elasticity.
Vitamin K helps improve the elasticity of blood vessels and can help reduce undereye puffiness, dark circles and even reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Best greens powder containing leafy greens like kale or spinach will usually provide enough vitamin K.
Best Greens Powder Australia - top picks.
Price: $25-60 depending on container size.
Ingredients: Organic Spirulina, Chlorella, Wheatgrass, Kale, Barley Leaf, Broccoli, Carica Papaya, Billberry, Rosehip, Carrot, Spinach, Goji Berry, Kelp, B complex, Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Zinc, Pro-vitamin A, Manganese, Vitamin D2, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Ginger Rhizome, Bromelain, Aloe Vera. Probiotics: Bifidobacterium Lactis, Bifidobacterium Longum, Papain.
Additional ingredients: Siberian Ginseng, Organic Flaxseed Powder, Ashwaghanda, vegetable protein.
Check price on Amazon Australia.
Price: $45-55 depending on retailer.
Ingredients: Barley Grass, Wheat Grass, Maca, Spirulina, Natural Flavour, Kale Powder, Kelp Powder, Spinach Powder, Moringa Powder, Monk Fruit, Organic Stevia, Multivitamins.
Check price on Aussie Health Products.
Price: $55-65 per 30 serves depending on retailer.
Ingredients: Sweet potato, spinach, alfalfa, chlorella, kale, broccoli, spirulina, raspberry, strawberry, pomegranate, elderberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, cranberry, acai berry, goji berry, wheat grass, barley grass, corn fibre, natural flavours. Sweetened with natural sweeteners (Steviol and Thaumatin).
Check price on Elite Supps Website.
Price: $55-65 per 30 serves depending on retailer.
Ingredients: Wheatgrass (29%), Barley grass (20%), Spirulina (18%), ULTANA™ Phytoplankton (17%), Chlorella, Alfalfa, Ashwagandha root powder, Probiotics (Lactobacillius acidophilus), Natural pineapple flavour, Citric acid, Pineapple juice powder, Natural vanilla flavour powder, Thaumatin powder.
Check price on Aussie Health Products.
Price: $30-50 depending on bottle size.
Note: this is not in powder form, it’s in liquid.
Ingredients: Organic Turmeric Powder, 787.5mg Milk Thistle, 112.5mg Broccoli Seed, 22.5mg Broccoli Sprout powder, 22.5mg Organic Wheat Grass Powder, 22.5mg Organic Barley Grass, 22.5mg Beetroot Powder, 22.5mg Organic Alfalfa Powder, Fermented Papaya, Glycerine.
Check price on Happy Healthy You Website.
Price: $55-65 depending on retailer.
Ingredients: Organic Barley Grass, Organic WHEAT Grass, Natural Flavours, Citric Acid, Larch (Arabinogalactan), Green Banana, Organic Kale, Organic Spinach, Organic Spirulina, CELERY, Kiwi Fruit, Sweetener (Sucralose), Vegetable Gum (Acacia), Silicon Dioxide, Organic Acai, Organic Goji Fruit Extract, Potassium Chloride, Organic Chlorella, Blueberry, Calcium Silicate, Broccoli Seed Extract (13.5% Glucoraphanin), Kelp Laminaria.
Check price on Elite Supps Website.
Check price on Amazon AU.
Benefits of Greens Powders for women over 35.
Although greens supplements can be beneficial at any age, as we get older our digestive system, hormones and immune system need more help and support.
Around this age many of us tend to be the busiest in our lives juggling work, kids and many other commitments often leaving our health and nutrition at the bottom of the list of priorities.
Stress level is high and energy level is low. Greens powder supplement isn’t a miracle supplement it can definitely help in improving our general health and wellbeing. It’s not uncommon for many women to develop deficiencies from a lack of time to focus on getting all the minerals and vitamins they need.
Here are some of the key benefits that Greens Powder can deliver for a busy woman.
Nutrient Boost: Greens powders are typically packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing a convenient way to increase daily nutrient intake. This is especially important as nutrient requirements may change with age.
Increased Energy: The blend of vitamins and minerals in greens powders can help combat fatigue and boost energy levels, which is crucial for managing a busy schedule.
Improved Immune Function: The antioxidants in greens powders, such as vitamin C and E, can support a strong immune system, helping to prevent illness and ensuring you stay on top of your responsibilities.
Digestive Health: Some greens powders contain digestive enzymes or probiotics that aid in digestion and gut health. A healthy gut is essential for overall well-being and can help manage stress.
Skin Health: The antioxidants in greens powders can promote a healthy complexion by reducing oxidative stress, supporting collagen production, and reducing the signs of aging.
Weight Management: Greens powders are typically low in calories but high in fiber, which can help with weight management and appetite control, especially for women over 35 who may experience changes in metabolism.
Alkalizing Properties: Greens powders can help maintain a balanced pH level in the body, which is important for overall health and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can be a concern as we age. The anti-inflammatory properties of greens powders can help manage inflammation and associated health issues.
Convenience: For busy women, greens powders offer a quick and convenient way to get a concentrated dose of nutrients without the need for extensive meal preparation.
Stress Management: Some greens powders include adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or rhodiola, which can help the body adapt to stress and promote mental well-being.
Bone Health: Greens powders can contain calcium and vitamin K, which are essential for maintaining bone health, especially as women age and become more susceptible to bone-related issues.
Heart Health: Ingredients like beetroot in greens powders can support heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
Remember that while greens powders can be a convenient way to supplement your diet, they should not replace whole fruits and vegetables in your diet entirely.
A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods is still essential for optimal health. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before adding any new supplement to your routine, especially if you have specific health concerns or taking medication.
Are green powders better than multivitamins?
Multivitamins offer a convenient way to get a little bit of everything in terms of vitamins and minerals. Greens powders on the other hand offer a little more than that, good greens can also contain antioxidants and probiotics, and prebiotic fibre.
In case you are wondering what is the difference between probiotics and prebiotic fiber here is the explanation by dietitian Katherine Zeratsky from Mayo Clinic.
“Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or improve the ‘good’ bacteria (normal microflora) in the body. Prebiotics are foods (typically high-fiber foods) that act as food for human microflora.”
Greens powders are often made from whole food sources and can have additional prebiotic fiber if you choose the right brand.
Some greens powders are made from fermented sprouts making it very gut-friendly and can help alleviate bloating.
Also, green powders can be a little easier to take for those who don’t like taking pills.
Greens Powders:
Imagine them as super-concentrated versions of real fruits, veggies, and herbs. They’re packed with the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other good stuff you’d find in those foods. Plus, they often come with fiber, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, which can be fantastic for your gut health.
One cool thing about greens powders is that they’re convenient. If you’re always on the go or find it tough to get enough veggies into your daily meals, they can be a handy solution.
Multivitamins:
Now, picture a multivitamin as your daily nutrient insurance policy. They’re straightforward and you can take them any time even on the go. They’re designed to give you a bit of everything, making sure you get a baseline of essential nutrients.
Multivitamins are great for consistency. If you’re concerned about meeting your daily nutrient requirements or have specific dietary restrictions, they can help fill in the gaps.
Here’s the deal: Your choice depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Dietary Habits: If you’re already eating a wide variety of fruits, veggies, and whole foods, you might not need a greens powder. But if you’re not hitting your daily greens goal, a greens powder can be your secret weapon.
Individual Needs: Maybe you’ve got specific health conditions or nutrient deficiencies. In that case, a multivitamin, recommended by a healthcare provider, could be your best bet.
Taste: If you are someone who simply doesn’t enjoy a wide variety of vegetables, greens powder can help. As long as you still try your best to consume the fresh veggies you do like.
Combination: Some folks like to use both. They cover their bases with a daily multivitamin and then sprinkle in some greens powder when they feel they need an extra nutrient boost.
The most important thing is to choose a supplement that is made of natural ingredients and doesn’t contain artificial flavors or other additives.
Always try to understand the ingredients list and find out what things are. Keep in mind that good health comes from a combination of things, a good diet, adequate intake of protein, hydration and exercise.
Supplements are just there to help you make things a little easier and fill the gaps when you don’t have the time or lack consistency.
Frequently Asked Question About Greens Powders.
Are green powders actually effective?
While it is important to understand that greens powder does not replace a healthy balanced diet, doctors say that supplementing with greens powder can help close the gaps when there are days you are unable to hit your adequate nutrient intake.
Is it okay to drink green powder every day?
Greens powder is safe to take every day and can be a great addition to your daily nutrient and vitamin intake. However, please don’t let it be your go-to for replacing all the vegetables and fruits altogether. You still need fresh produce as much as possible.
Does green powder detox your body?
The nutrients in green powders are known to assist the liver with detoxification processes helping your body eliminate toxins and heavy metals. Remember, they are just there to assist. A healthy liver is the one doing the job of detoxifying.
This is why it is recommended to eat leafy greens daily, but for most, it’s not realistic due to busy lifestyle. Greens powder can help close those gaps when our nutrient intake from whole foods is lacking.
Can greens powder help with weight loss?
While there is no direct effect on fat burn from greens powders, it has several health benefits that can contribute to weight loss.
Let me explain;
Food cravings occur due to vitamin and mineral deficiency. You might also experience increased appetite due to tiredness and fatigue, causing you to overeat or eat when you are not hungry.
Ensuring that you are not deficient in anything and not lacking any vitamins can help reduce cravings and unnecessary desire to snack.
Greens powder can also help you increase your fibre intake which can lead to a feeling of satiation and fullness without the bloating.
What to avoid in greens powder?
- Added sugar.
- Emulsifiers or thickeners.
- Non-organic or GMO ingredients.
- Artificial sweeteners.
- Artificial colours.
- Artificial flavours.
Are there any side effects of using greens powder?
While greens powders are generally considered safe and beneficial for many. It’s important to be mindful of potential side effects such as digestive discomfort or interactions with certain medications.
I suggest consulting your healthcare professional if you know you have some gut conditions or taking medications to ensure that greens powder is suitable for you.
Is it better to take greens powder at night or in the morning?
Taking green powder in the morning will give your body nutrients and energy for the day ahead. Which is why many prefer to add it to their breakfast smoothie.
However, if you missed the window, rather than completely skipping it take it later in the day, especially if you know you are not going to get your 5 veg and 2 fruits a day target.
Is it safe to use greens powder during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
While greens powders generally consist of concentrated and powdered vegetable and fruit extracts and are relatively safe for most people.
It is still recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding mums to consult with their healthcare professional before incorporating greens powder into their diet to ensure it aligns with their specific dietary and nutritional needs during this important period.
During pregnancy or breastfeeding, there could be certain hormonal imbalances that require minimizing or completely eliminating the consumption of particular minerals or nutrients.
This is why blood work is advisable before commencing dietary supplements of any kind during this period of time.
What is the alternative to AG1 in Australia?
AG1 (Athletic Greens) is a very popular brand of super greens powder in the United States. While the product is made in the US they now do offer shipping to Australia.
However, the cost of the product is quite steep, additionally, international shipping is fairly costly too.
There are fantastic alternative brands that are just as good and contain the same ingredients in very similar amounts as AG1.
Vital All-in-One greens that I listed as the 1st recommendation contain almost the same super greens ingredients with the addition of other vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.
Perfect anti-aging morning smoothie recipe with greens powder.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries, or a mix)
- 1/2 banana
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1 scoop of your preferred greens powder
- 1/2 cup low-fat Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or any milk of your choice
- Ice cubes (optional for a colder and thicker texture)
- Optional: 1 scoop of protein powder or clear protein water (whey, plant-based, or collagen)
- Optional: 1 scoop of collagen powder to help improve skin elasticity and connective tissue health.
Instructions:
Start by adding the frozen berries, banana, chia seeds or flaxseeds, and greens powder to your blender.
Pour in the Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative.
Add the almond milk to the blender. Adjust the amount of milk depending on your desired thickness.
If you’d like to add extra protein, include one scoop of your preferred protein powder (whey, plant-based, or collagen).
Blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add more almond milk as needed.
Once you’re satisfied with the consistency, pour the smoothie into a glass.
Optionally, you can add ice cubes to the blender for a colder and thicker texture.
Enjoy your modified anti-aging morning smoothie, rich in antioxidants, fiber, and optional protein to support healthy aging and overall well-being.
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