Dietitian’s Guide Super Greens Powder

Green powders have taken the health and wellness market by storm. With high demand comes heavy competition between supplement brands. Although having various choices is good, too many options can leave consumers struggling. Not to mention, many still aren’t quite sure what a super greens powder is and what it can do for them.

Navigating supplements in general can be tricky. With so many claims and research to filter through, trying to weed out the good choices from the bad can feel overwhelming.

Luckily,  with this guide, the work is done for you and soon you’ll know your way around green powders with confidence.

Super Greens Powder: A Dietary Supplement Revolution

Super greens powders are unlike any other dietary supplement on the market. When combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, these supplements can provide important nutrients in a more natural form that support overall health and wellness, may reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, and more.

Defining Super Greens Powder

Since this product is still relatively new to many consumers, it’s not unlikely that you might find yourself wondering ‘‘what is a super greens powder?’‘‘

Super greens powders are powdered dietary supplements you can mix into liquids that typically include a variety of concentrated fruits, vegetables, and other superfood ingredients.

These products are called green powders because that is the predominant color however, some products may be different colors depending on the ingredients. Every super greens powder is different and ingredients will vary by brand.

For example, Human Tonik’s Supergreen Tonik powder contains 38 different superfood ingredients including spirulina, spinach, ashwagandha, and rhodiola.

These products were created to help fill in nutritional gaps and provide a balance of essential nutrients. Some greens powders may also provide additional health benefits including improving focus, energy, concentration, stress, and sleep.

The Rising Popularity Of Greens Powder In The Market

Super greens powders are still a relatively new dietary supplement on the market. However, the strong consumer need and desire for convenience have recently skyrocketed these products into mega-popularity.

According to Industry Research,

“The global Green Powder market was valued at US$ 255 million in 2020 and is expected to reach US$ 597.4 million by the end of 2027”

Before greens powders, consuming the recommended 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables daily has become almost impossible for many busy Americans.

Creating a powdered supplement that provides a hearty dose of essential vitamins and minerals directly from these sources in a convenient powder has created a revolution in the supplement market.

Unraveling The Composition Of Super Greens Powder

To better understand super greens powders, you need to understand their composition. Although the ingredients in these powders will vary by brand, most are built using a similar base of ingredients.

The Science Behind Super Greens Powders

There are many potential health benefits of green powders. Because super greens powders are typically high in certain vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin C, taking these supplements may help to support immune health. (Source)(Source)

Additionally, when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, super greens powders and organic superfoods may help to reduce the risk of developing certain chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure and even cancer.

For example, a 3-month pilot study conducted on 40 participants with a history of hypertension found that participants who took two tablespoons of green powder daily experienced a reduction in both diastolic and systolic blood pressure levels compared to the control group which showed no change. This is likely contributed to the presence of valuable plant compounds that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. (Source)(Source)(Source)

Additionally, some super greens powders may provide ingredients that could improve energy levels, such as green tea extract. Another 3-month randomized-controlled trial conducted on 63 women participants found that the participants that took 1-tablespoon of green powder that contained green tea extract daily experienced significant improvements in energy levels compared to those in the placebo group. (Source)

Although there are many potential benefits to taking super greens powders, they are not a substitute for whole fruits and vegetables. Most of the ingredients in the best greens powders are considered safe however, there are possibilities for drug-nutrient interactions with these products, especially those that contain herbal ingredients.

Additionally, there is limited research available on how these ingredients may interact with each other and further research remains warranted on the efficacy of these products as a health supplement.

The best greens powders also don’t typically contain the same amount of vitamins and minerals as multivitamins and therefore do not work as a substitution for these.

A Deep Dive Into The Greens Blend In Most Greens Powders

Each greens powder contains its own specific blend of ingredients that will vary by brand; however, there are a few key things to look for in most of these green powders and those include essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and superfoods.

Essential Vitamins And Minerals: The Building Blocks Of Health

As mentioned previously, many greens powders contain high amounts of vitamins A and C which are essential for immune health.

The amounts of vitamins and minerals available in greens powders will vary based on brand but most contain good sources of these essential nutrients and therefore complement the diet and fill in nutritional gaps where needed.

For example, Human Tonik’s Supergreen Tonik powder contains over 100% of the %Daily Value (%DV) for vitamin C, vitamin D, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, zinc, and copper. Supergreen Tonik also contains over 75% of the %DV for folate, selenium, and manganese.

The %DV is the amount of recommended nutrients to consume or not exceed each day. For example, if you are consuming a product that contains 5% of the %DV for vitamin A, you are only getting a small amount of that vitamin towards your daily intake whereas if you consume a product that contains 90% of the %DV for vitamin A then you have almost met all of your needs for that vitamin for the day. (Source)

Probiotics And Prebiotics: Keys To Gut Health

Many supplement companies have started including probiotics and prebiotics in their super greens powders. Probiotics and prebiotics are essential for gut health. Numerous studies have found that gut health impacts the whole body, including the immune system.

Probiotics are live organisms that contribute to your gut flora and provide numerous health benefits whereas prebiotics are beneficial fibers that benefit the health of these live organisms in your gut.

Probiotics can be challenging for many consumers to get into their diet as the main food sources for these live organisms include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso. Prebiotic sources include mainly fibers from whole grains, bananas, onions, garlic, and artichokes. (Source)

Superfoods: The Powerhouses Of Nutrients In Dietary Supplements

One of the biggest draws of super greens powders includes their inclusion of various superfood ingredients. Superfoods are specific foods that are marketed as nutrient-rich that may provide many health benefits.

However, there really are no such things as superfoods, and the best way to get the most out of consuming these foods is to include a variety of them in your diet to get a wide array of beneficial nutrients. And that is exactly what super greens powders do.

Some common foods categorized as superfoods that many super greens powders might include are dark leafy greens, berries, nuts and seeds, garlic, ginger, turmeric, beets, mushrooms, and seaweed.

The Role Of Gluten-Free And Certified Organic Ingredients In Super Greens Powder

Many super greens powders include Certified Organic ingredients and gluten-free options as these are popular considerations for many consumers.

The Benefits Of Gluten-Free Components In Green Powder

It’s no surprise that those with gluten intolerance, a gluten allergy, or those who suffer from Celiac disease will be searching for gluten-free green powders. But gluten-free options are also popular among many other types of consumers.

Choosing a gluten-free green powder doesn’t provide any additional benefits to consumers unless they suffer from the above conditions; however, because gluten-free has become a popular choice for many, it is a desirable option for a lot of consumers.

Understanding The Importance Of Certified Organic Ingredients

When you are trying to boost your nutrition, the last thing you want is to include more synthetic pesticides in your diet. Choosing a Certified Organic super greens powder, or one that contains mostly Certified Organic ingredients helps to ensure you are getting quality ingredients that are free of chemical pesticides and herbicides that are commonly used in traditional farming practices.

These additives have been associated with birth defects, obesity, diabetes, ADHD, and many other health conditions. As more research comes out, it’s more apparent that these pesticides are not doing any favors to consumers. Despite the higher cost of organic products, it’s clear the benefits far outweigh any financial drawback. (Source)

Spotlight On Key Ingredients: Organic Broccoli, Organic Spinach, Organic Carrot, And Organic Alfalfa

Although we now know that there really isn’t any such thing as a superfood, we recognize that some foods come with a richer nutrition profile than others. Some of these foods include broccoli, spinach, carrots, and alfalfa. These foods contain a good source of vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for vision, immune health, reproductive health, and growth and development. (Source)

Additionally, these food sources contain a good amount of vitamin K, another fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone health, as well as vitamin C, a water-soluble vitamin essential for immune health and collagen production. These are great ingredients to look for in super greens powders as they provide a good dose of nutrition. (Source)(Source)

Unveiling The Variety: Different Types Of Super Greens Powder

As we know, super greens powders will vary greatly by brand. Although they all share similarities, there are many different varieties for consumers to choose from based on their health goals.

Understanding The Green Superfood Powder

Super greens powders are special powdered dietary supplements that consumers can easily mix into liquids. Most super greens powders contain anywhere from 20-40 different ingredients with the most common including leafy greens, seaweed, grasses, veggies, nutritional extracts such as green tea extract, probiotics, prebiotics, plant-based digestive enzymes, herbs, and mushrooms. (Source)(Source)

These ingredients are typically dried and then ground into a fine powder. Certain components of these foods may be extracted and some brands may also use sprouted ingredients to increase vitamin levels. (Source) 

Most super greens powders are vegan-friendly, Certified Organic, and made with Non-GMO ingredients but not all, therefore it remains important to always check the labels before purchasing.

Distinguishing The Superfoods Green Powder

There is a difference between a plain green powder and a superfood green powder. If you couldn’t already guess, green powders are mainly made from vegetables while superfood green powders contain additional “superfood” ingredients such as the ones mentioned above. These may not only include fruits and vegetables, but also herbs, adaptogens, and extracts.

If you aren’t sure if you are looking at a green powder or a superfood green powder, simply check the ingredients list. This is the best indicator of what kind of supplement you are getting.

It’s also good practice to always read ingredient lists and food labels to ensure you are getting high-quality products without unnecessary and potentially harmful additives.

Sport Greens Powder: For the Athletically Inclined

In addition to plain green powders and superfood green powders, there are also green powders aimed at improving athletic performance. These powders may include a lot of the same ingredients as superfood green powders but with additives aimed at supporting exercise.

If you are athletically inclined and are looking for a green powder that also doubles for extra support in the gym, be sure to choose one that is NSF Certified for Sport. This seal ensures that the ingredients provided on the label actually match what is in the package. It also ensures that the product does not contain unsafe levels of contaminants, prohibited substances, or masking agents. (Source)

Deciphering The Taste: From Green Apple Flavor To Earthy Flavor

With different brands come different ingredients and different flavor profiles. Many green powders have a grassy flavor but some have additional additives to enhance the flavor profile to a more pleasing apple or other fruit flavor. It’s most likely you will get a green powder that has an earthy taste. Although this doesn’t bother some, it can be unappealing to others.

If you are someone who really doesn’t like grassy or earthy flavored things, be sure to look into green powders that are specially flavored to prevent this, or simply choose one that contains ingredients that are more suited to your taste preferences. If you enjoy your super greens powder, you are far more likely to take it consistently and get better results.

Whole Foods vs Greens Powder Supplements: A Comparative Analysis

Despite the popularity of green powder supplements, we know that whole foods continue to be the better choice if possible.

Green powders were not created to replace fruits and vegetables but rather to fill in any nutritional gaps to boost health and wellness.

Whole Foods vs Green Powder: A Nutrient-Dense Comparison

The benefit of green powders is that they provide a concentrated form of a variety of different nutrients that many may not be able to get into their diet in the form of whole foods. With that said, consuming a wide variety of whole fruits and vegetables is the best way to ensure a healthy, balanced diet without getting too much of one nutrient. (Source)

Not to mention, it’s far more satisfying to consume whole foods versus consuming a liquid. When eating fruits and vegetables you have to chew your food which promotes satiety and helps to reduce the likelihood of overeating. (Source)(Source)

Fruits and vegetables are also a rich source of fiber, an essential nutrient for gut health that also helps with satiety. Green powders are notoriously low in fiber despite the concentrated levels of fruits and vegetables. (Source)

With any dietary supplement, there is a concern about getting too much of one nutrient or another. Many green powders contain high amounts of vitamin K, which can interact with certain blood thinners. Additionally, they can contain harmful contaminants such as heavy metals. Because of this, these products should be used with caution and should be avoided in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with certain medical conditions. (Source)

The Role Of Fiber In Whole Foods And Its Absence In Many Greens Powders

As mentioned above, many green powders lack a good source of fiber despite their ingredient profile. In fact, many green powders contain a low 1-2 grams of fiber per serving whereas fruits and vegetables contain a good source in whole form.

For example, 1 whole avocado contains 10 grams of fiber and 1 serving of broccoli contains 4 grams. Fiber is an essential nutrient for digestive health as well as keeping your hunger and blood sugar in check. It is recommended that adults consume between 25-35 grams of fiber per day. (Source) 

By relying on green powders, it would be impossible to get anywhere near this goal. This is another reason why whole foods such as fruits and vegetables should be emphasized in the diet and green powders should only be used to help supplement what is still needed.

Benefits And Potential Side Effects Of Super Greens

We know super greens powders can provide many potential health benefits, but there are also some potential side effects that need to be considered as well.

Unpacking The Health Benefits Of Super Greens Powders

Below are some potential health benefits many green powders can provide. 

Healthy Blood Pressure: The Impact Of Iron, Nitrates, And Folate

Green powders can be a rich source of nutrients such as iron, nitrates, and folate. These nutrients can be beneficial for supporting healthy blood pressure.

Nitrates are compounds made of nitrogen and oxygen that act as a vasodilator, which helps to widen blood vessels and decrease pressure. This helps to better circulate oxygen-rich blood throughout the body.

Iron is essential for bringing oxygen to our blood cells. Low iron can contribute to heart arrhythmias and challenges with blood pressure. Additionally, research has found that folate, in the form of folic acid, may also help to support healthy blood pressure and even reduce it in some instances. (Source)(Source) 

Healthy Digestion: The Role Of Digestive Enzymes And Probiotics

Many green powders have started including digestive enzymes and probiotics in their formulations. These ingredients may help to support healthy digestion and may be beneficial for those who struggle to get certain foods in their diet.

The main sources of probiotics include fermented foods; however, many fermented foods have a strong flavor and those who don’t like these types of foods may have a hard time getting adequate probiotics to support gut health. In these cases, supplements may be helpful.

There is a lot of research to support the use of probiotic supplementation for digestion however because there are so many different strains, more research is still needed on the potential benefits of probiotic supplements. (Source)

Additionally, digestive enzymes have become a popular additive for digestive support in green powders as well. However, research studies have not found any conclusive benefit to taking digestive enzymes unless a deficiency is present.

Certain whole foods contain good sources of natural digestive enzymes that may aid in digestion including pineapple, papaya, avocado, banana, and ginger. (Source)

Boosting Immunity: The Power Of Vitamins And Reduced Inflammation

Because green powders contain a wide range of various vitamins, they likely contribute to a healthy immune system. In fact, most green powders are rich in vitamins essential to immune health, such as vitamins A, C, D, and E.

These vitamins also contain antioxidant properties that can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Chronic inflammation as a result of poor diet and lifestyle choices can lead to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. (Source)

Promotion Of Longevity: The Antioxidant Factor

The antioxidant properties of the ingredients commonly found in super greens powders may also help to promote longevity. Although antioxidants don’t directly affect our lifespan, the beneficial effects they have on our health, including decreasing inflammation, may play a role. However, studies on this are limited and further research is still needed to determine the potential role of antioxidants in promoting longevity. (Source)(Source) 

Balancing Hormones: Contributions From Berries, Leafy Greens, And Cruciferous Vegetables

If hormones are a concern, the best way to balance your hormones is to consume a balanced diet rich in whole foods while limiting highly processed foods and beverages. Consuming a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods, specifically foods high in B complex vitamins, can make a big impact on hormonal health.

Aside from animal products, these foods include a variety of fruits and veggies such as berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables. Because many green powders contain a rich source of nutrients, they may be beneficial in balancing hormonal fluctuations. However, It is essential that this is done along with a healthy diet and lifestyle. (Source)

Weight Loss Promotion: The Benefits Of Boosting Metabolism

Green powders alone aren’t a helpful weight loss tool however, they can support healthy weight loss. Green powders are low-calorie and do help to provide a hearty dose of nutrition to fill in any gaps that might be missing from the diet.

Taking green powders in conjunction with consuming a healthy diet and practicing a healthy lifestyle can help to improve metabolic health and increase the amount of energy your body burns at rest. A better functioning metabolism better supports a healthy weight and weight loss. 

Improved Skin Health: The Power Of Chlorophyll In Collagen Production

Because green powders are rich in, you guessed, green ingredients, they often contain a good source of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a substance responsible for the green color of plants. It contains antioxidant properties and helps to stimulate collagen production in the skin.

Collagen is a protein that is essential for the structure of skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. As we age, our body produces less collagen which can result in a decrease in the integrity of our skin causing wrinkles, fine lines, joint pain, and other undesirable signs of aging. Consuming collagen-stimulating foods, such as those rich in chlorophyll, can help to improve the signs of aging and create a more youthful appearance as well as potentially decrease joint pain. (Source)

Eye And Cognitive Health: The Benefits Of Vitamins And Minerals

Green powders can be a rich source of nutrients to support eye and cognitive health. Many green powders contain high amounts of vitamins A, C, E, and zinc, which are all essential nutrients for eye and brain health. (Source)(Source) 

Enhancement Of Sleep Quality: The Benefits Of Magnesium And Tryptophan

Another somewhat unexpected potential benefit of green powders is an improvement in sleep. Sleep is essential for health and wellbeing however, stress and a busy lifestyle can create challenges with sleep that affect us in the daytime. 

Some green powders contain a good source of magnesium and/or tryptophan, both of which can help enhance our sleep quality and quantity. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is essential for the formation of melatonin, an important hormone for sleep. (Source)

Additionally, magnesium can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety to help you fall asleep faster and get more restful sleep. (Source)

Potential Side Effects And Precautions Of Greens Supplements

Although there are many potential benefits to taking green supplements, like any dietary supplement there are some potential precautions and side effects that should be considered.

Understanding The Impact Of Consuming Excessive Nutrients

Although green powders are rich in many nutrients, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. There are some nutrients that our body cannot get rid of on its own if we consume too much of them. 

These excess nutrients may result in health concerns or complications. Additionally, some excess nutrients, such as vitamin K, can pose issues with medications such as blood thinners.

Do not combine green powders with multivitamins or other supplements that contain high levels of vitamins and minerals as this could potentially lead to toxicity concerns.

The Potential Harmful Effects Of Excessive Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K)

Some nutrients that are of particular concern with toxicity include fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble, which means when we consume excess amounts of them we store them in our fat cells. This is different from water-soluble vitamins which our body can flush out excess via our urine.

Excessive fat-soluble vitamin intake is not a concern when consuming foods as it is very difficult if not impossible for most to overconsume these nutrients from diet alone. However, when incorporated in a supplement or two that contains high amounts of these nutrients, toxicity is a real possibility.

Some symptoms of fat-soluble vitamin toxicity may mimic other conditions and be hard to recognize. For example, the symptoms of vitamin A toxicity include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. (Source)

The Importance Of Moderation And Balance When Using Greens Powder Supplement

A good rule of thumb when it comes to a healthy diet and lifestyle is to practice moderation. This also goes for green powder supplements. Because these supplements are not replacements for multivitamins and we don’t want to consume them along with other supplements that contain high amounts of vitamins and minerals, you don’t need to take them daily.

Although many products recommended taking green powders daily, you can build a consistent routine by taking them a few times a week and still see benefits. It’s important that these supplements are taken along with a healthy diet and lifestyle and not in lieu of them.

Practical Ways to Consume Super Greens and How They Fit into Your Daily Routine

Recommendations On Incorporating Greens Powder Into Diet

Most green powders are recommended to be consumed daily to help supplement the diet however, this is not a requirement. Many feel consuming green powders daily will provide the most benefit but much research on their effectiveness is still needed.

It is recommended to take green powders on a relatively consistent basis which could be daily, every other day, or a few times a week depending on your diet and availability of green powders.

Keeping in mind many of these supplements can be costly and not everyone is able to purchase them frequently enough to consume them daily.

The Effects Of Cooking With Greens Powder On Nutrient Values

Did you know that you can also cook with green powders? If you aren’t into chugging down a grass-flavored liquid, you might consider adding green powders to some of your favorite foods, such as pancakes, muffins, salad dressings, dips, and more.

Cooking vegetables can make some nutrients more available, such as the calcium content in spinach which skyrockets when cooked compared to raw. However, some nutrients may be reduced during cooking, such as vitamin C in broccoli and spinach, which can be decreased by up to 50% during boiling. (Source)(Source)(Source)(Source)

Because green powders are mainly made of concentrated versions of these vegetables, the same rules apply. While cooking can be an excellent and fun way to get in these green powders, some nutrients may be lost during the heating period, most commonly vitamin C and probiotics.

Adding Variety To Greens Consumption: From Mixing With Protein Powder To Beet Root Powder Drinks

You don’t have to limit yourself to mixing your green powders with plain water. You can combine green powders with protein powder, smoothies, unsweet iced teas or matcha teas, beet root powder drinks, and more. Not only will this add variety to the flavor profile of your beverage, but it can come with additional benefits.

For example, one of the big things green powders are missing is protein. By mixing your green powder with a protein powder or protein shake, you can increase protein intake as well which can be particularly helpful for those who are trying to meet their protein needs for exercise.

Additionally, you can combine your green powder with a red powder such as beetroot powder. These nutrients often complement those found in green powders if you have a powder that mainly contains concentrated vegetables.

However, if adding two powdered supplements together seems like too much, you can also look for greens and red powder, such as Human Tonik Greens & Red Tonik, which provide the benefits of both.

Choosing The Best Greens Powders: A Comprehensive Guide

With so many different varieties of green powders on the market, it can be challenging to know how to choose a good one.

There are a few key things to consider when picking your green powder, including understanding the nutrition label, specific ingredients, third-party testing, price, and consumer reviews.

Understanding The Nutrition Label

How To Interpret The Nutrition Labels On Greens Powders

Serving Sizes

Like any food or supplement product, the first thing provided on the nutrition label is the serving size and the number of servings per container. This is important to look at as some green products have a serving size of 1 scoop while others may require 2-4 scoops. This helps to avoid under or over-dosing. (Source)

Additionally, the servings per container allow you to see what value the product provides. For example, a green powder that contains 30 servings per container and costs $30 is more budget-friendly than a 15-serving container for the same price.

Ingredient Lists

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing green powder is the ingredients. You can find the ingredients list directly underneath the nutrition label. This information will tell you if the product actually contains the ingredients listed on the product in adequate amounts.

For example, some products may advertise containing probiotics but when checking the ingredients list only provides a small number of colony-forming units (CFUs) compared to the recommended billion based on research. This also means you need to be familiar with recommended amounts of various ingredients you wish to include in your diet.

This is also an opportunity to weed out products that contain high amounts of added sugars, fillers, preservatives, and other additives. Some of these ingredients may be needed to extend the shelf life of products; however, it’s good to choose products that have little additives such as these if you can.

Some common additives you may see in supplements include cellulose, gelatin, maltodextrin, potassium sorbate, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, and soy lecithin.

Nutrient Contents

Lastly, the amount of nutrients present in the product can be found on the nutrition label. Nutrients are typically listed with %DV, with many that might provide over 100% of the %DV per serving.

Although this is not often a concern, for fat-soluble vitamins it’s important to check the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) recommendations. UL is the maximum amount of a nutrient that can be consumed daily without adverse health effects. (Source)

Remember to avoid taking green powder supplements with other vitamin and mineral supplements as it could result in vitamin or mineral toxicity. Always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before taking a green powder supplement, especially if you are taking any medications for a chronic condition.

Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Greens Powder: From Vegetable Intake To Organic Superfoods

The main ingredients in green powders can vary significantly. If you are simply looking to boost your intake of green veggies, a simple green powder may be for you. If you feel you could use more nutritionally-dense ingredients, you can look for green powders that contain additional superfood ingredients.

It’s important to consider what type of green powder you want because that will affect the overall cost. Powders that incorporate more organic superfood ingredients will likely cost more than plain green powder.

The Importance Of Third-Party Testing In Ensuring Quality

When it comes to dietary supplements, you always want to find a product that offers third-party testing for the quality and purity of ingredients.

Third-party testing is the independent testing of a product by a separate organization that was not involved in making and will not benefit from the product being tested. (Source)

To tell if a product offers third-party testing, simply look at the supplement label. Products that have been third-party tested contain a seal on the label for consumers to note during purchase.

Other important quality considerations include products that have been USP verified. USP verified means the product contains the ingredients listed on the label in the declared potency and amounts, is free of harmful levels of certain contaminants such as heavy metals, will break down and release into the body in a specified amount of time, and has been made according to FDA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). (Source)

Price Considerations: How Much Do the Top Greens Powders Cost?

The cost of green powders will vary by brand depending on ingredients, dose, and other factors.

The average cost of most green powders is about $40 per 30 servings.

This adds up to about $1.33 per serving, an important consideration for those who are on a specific budget.

Specific Brand Comparisons And Reviews

When comparing several greens powders, including AG1 by Athletic Greens, Greens and Superfoods by Bloom, and Supergreen Tonik by Human Tonik, they all vary by benefits and unique selling points that consumers may be looking for.

Below are the main differences between the two and how they compare to each other based on value, quality of ingredients, and consumer ratings. 

AG1 by Athletic Greens costs $99 for a 30-serving container and claims to provide vitamins and minerals, pre and probiotics, a phytonutrient blend, digestive support, immune support, and metabolism, energy, and stress support all in one product. AG1 contains 75 ingredients and is vegetarian/vegan-friendly, keto, low-carb, paleo, gluten-free, egg-free, nut-free, and contains no added sugars. Over 20,000 consumers on Athletic Green’s website ranked AG1 with 4.5 out of 5 stars and raving reviews about the ease and convenience along with AG1s high-nutrient value.

Another popular green powder is Greens and Superfoods by Bloom. This product costs $39.99 for a 30-serving container and claims to provide 30+ ingredients including fruits and vegetables with antioxidant properties, probiotics, and more to support gut health, boost energy, and soothe uncomfortable bloat. Over 7,000 consumers on Bloom’s website ranked its Greens and Superfoods product with 4.8 out of 5 stars. Many consumers raved about the flavor of the product, which comes in berry, coconut, citrus, mango, and unflavored varieties.

Lastly, Supergreen Tonik by Human Tonik costs $87 for a 30-serving container and claims to provide 30 berry servings packed with 38 different superfoods, vitamins, and minerals. Human Tonik claims its product boosts energy, helps to fight off the cold and flu, improves sleep, supercharges your brain, and reduces stress and anxiety. This product is third-party tested, vegan, and USA-made and comes in berry and mint flavors. Thousands of users on Human Tonik’s website ranked Supergreen Tonik with 4.7 out of 5 stars with reviewers mentioning great results including improvements in energy levels and sleep.

While each green powder provides its own benefits and drawbacks. When comparing Athletic Greens AG1 to Bloom Greens and Superfoods, both claim to support immunity and energy however, AG1 focuses more on gut health and recovery while Greens and Superfoods focus more on digestive support and reduced inflammation. Despite this, AG1 offers 7.2 billion CFU of probiotics while Greens and Superfoods don’t have their probiotic count listed. AG1 has 75 ingredients compared to 40 in Greens and Superfoods and both include the same amount of fiber, 2g per serving.

Although the price point is significantly higher, AG1 appears to pack more bang for their buck. When comparing AG1 to Human Tonik Supergreen Tonik, both are manufactured in the US but Supergreen Tonik offers multiple flavors, and importantly ingredient dosages you can easily read versus a proprietary blend that AG1 offers where doses aren’t listed. Supergreen Tonik is also a better price for the quality of ingredients provided and they offer a 365-day money-back guarantee compared to AG1 which only provides 60 days.

In the end, full supplement label transparency should be a crucial consideration when it comes to supplements and Human Tonik Supergreen Tonik is the only product of the 3 that provides that. Although its price point is higher, it provides more superfood and organic greens ingredients compared to Bloom and provides a lower price point compared to AG1 making Supergreen Tonik the better choice.

The Role Of Greens Powders In Special Diets

Discuss How Greens Powders Can Fit Into Special Dietary Needs Such As Vegan, Paleo, Or Ketogenic Diets

If you are following a special diet, taking greens powders may be a helpful way to stick with your goals while still prioritizing any potential nutrients you may be lacking.

For example, many supplement brands offer green powder products that are vegan, paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto-friendly. Always check the supplement label for ingredient information if you are following one of these special diets to ensure the powder you choose is acceptable for you.

It is not recommended for children or pregnant and breastfeeding women to consume green powders as there is not enough research to determine the safety and efficacy of these forms of dietary supplements on those populations.

Avoiding Artificial Sweeteners and Artificial Flavors in Greens Powders

Research studies have linked many potential health implications to consuming a diet high in artificial sugars. For example, many animal studies have found that artificial sugar intake resulted in weight gain, brain tumors, bladder cancer, and more. (Source) 

When choosing a green powder, you want to look for products that don’t use artificial sugars or flavorings in their products. When looking at the ingredients list, avoid products that contain acesulfame potassium, aspartame, neotame, saccharine, or Splenda (sucralose).

Added Sugars And Sweeteners: Coconut Sugar And Monk Fruit Extract In Many Greens Powders

Because many green powders have a grassy or earthy flavor that is not favorable to all consumers, brands often find ways to create different flavor combinations using extracts and sweeteners.

Although there is nothing wrong with wanting your green powder to taste good, you want to make sure it is sweetened with natural sugars in small amounts. Avoid any green powders that contain high amounts of added sugars as these can negatively impact your health goals.

Some common natural sugar additives include coconut sugar and monk fruit extract. Although coconut sugar is marketed as a healthier alternative than traditional cane sugar, it reacts almost exactly the same in our bodies. It does result in a slightly lower spike in insulin and contains slightly higher amounts of minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, the overall differences are minute. (Source)(Source) 

While monk fruit extract is considered an alternative to sweeteners. Monk fruit extract is free of calories while still providing sweetness that is 100-200x sweeter than sugar in a natural form.

Some researchers believe monk fruit extract may have many potential health benefits due to its high antioxidant content; however, further research is still needed. (Source)

When you choose a green powder that is low in added sugars, always read the ingredients list to see what types of sugars are used, if any. This will help you weed out those that use artificial sugars compared to those that use natural alternatives.

Conclusion

Green powders can be a convenient and more holistic way to supplement your diet and fill in any nutritional gaps. These supplements come in many different varieties based on brand, which will vary greatly by ingredients.

Although green powders are associated with many potential health benefits, including potential weight loss, improving skin, enhancing sleep, and improving cognitive health/reducing stress, they are not a substitute for consuming a balanced diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables.

Avoid taking green powder supplements with other vitamin and mineral supplements such as multivitamins, as this could increase your risk for vitamin or mineral toxicity. Always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before adding a green supplement to your routine, especially if you are taking any medications for a chronic condition.

Super Greens Powder FAQ’s

What Do Various Super Greens Powders Taste Like, And How Can They Be Made More Enjoyable?

Most super greens powders have a grassy or earthy taste unless flavored. Some brands of supplements offer flavored products while others don’t. For example, Human Tonik Supergreen Tonik powder comes in berry and mint flavors.

If you wish to choose an unflavored green powder but want to improve the grassy taste, you can mix it into different liquids aside from water, add it to smoothies, or mix it into baked goods and other foods that may help to minimize the flavor and make it more enjoyable.

How Often Should Super Greens Powder Be Consumed, And Does This Frequency Change Depending On Personal Health Objectives?

Most supplement brands recommend consuming their green powders daily. As with most supplements, getting into a consistent routine typically leads to the best results however, it is not required.

Many of these green supplements are pricey and can be taken every other day or even a few times a week with similar results. Avoid consuming more than one serving of green powders per day.

How Do Super Greens Powders Interact With Other Dietary Supplements Or Medications?

The ingredients in some super greens powders have the potential to interact with certain medications. For example, people on blood thinners should avoid taking super greens powders that are high in vitamin K. Additionally, some herbal ingredients can have medication interactions that may or may not be known.

Always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before adding one of these powders into your routine, especially if you are taking any medications for chronic conditions.

How Quickly Can A Change In Energy Levels Be Expected After Beginning To Take Super Greens Powders?

The amount of time it takes to see results, specifically in energy levels, with green powders will vary by individual.

Some consumers have noticed improvements in energy levels upon taking their first dose while others did not experience increased energy levels until they took their green powder consistently for 1-2 weeks.

What Is The Shelf Life Of Super Greens Powder, And How Should It Be Stored To Maintain Maximum Potency?

If unopened, green powders should be stored in a cool, dark place and can last up to 2 years. Once opened, green powders should be kept in the refrigerator to prevent any loss of quality or potential of ingredients.

Do not consume green powders after the expiration date listed on the product. 

Is There A Significant Difference Between Organic And Non-Organic Super Greens Powders?

The biggest difference between green powders that contain organic versus non-organic ingredients is how the ingredients were grown.

Organically grown greens are greens that are free of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. They are also lower in greenhouse gasses for those who are looking to create a smaller ecological footprint. 

What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing A Brand Of Super Greens Powder?

The most important things to look for when choosing a green powder are the quality of ingredients (organic versus non-organic), ingredient transparency (do they list the dosages of each ingredient or use a proprietary blend), the presence of artificial sugars and flavorings, additional ingredients such as probiotics, prebiotics, etc., and of course cost.

What Common Allergens, If Any, Are Found In Super Greens Powders?

Most green powders are free of common allergens however, some may experience allergies to certain plant ingredients such as wheatgrass, seaweed, or green tea.

If you are allergic to these ingredients, always check the ingredients list on products before purchasing.

What Are Proprietary Blends In The Context Of Super Greens Powders?

Proprietary blends are unique sets of ingredients that were formulated by the brand for a specific purpose. For example, Bloom Greens and Superfoods powder contains multiple proprietary blends including a fiber blend, greens and superfoods blend, and pre and probiotic blend.

Proprietary blends provide only the total amount of the blend on the nutrition label and not the dose of each individual ingredient. This doesn’t allow you to see what you are actually getting in your green powder and is recommended to avoid products that do not provide full transparency of their ingredients and doses.

Can Consuming Greens Powder Help Alleviate Symptoms Of Bloating?

Some green powders can help to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms of bloating however, it depends on the powder.

Because green powders often contain added beneficial ingredients such as prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, and anti-inflammatory foods, they can help improve gut health and digestion.

Can Greens Powders Effectively Substitute Whole Fruits And Vegetables In A Diet?

Despite the wide range of ingredients provided in some green powders, they are not suitable or effective substitutes for whole fruits and vegetables.

These powders were meant to help fill in any nutritional gaps to optimize nutrition, not to replace whole foods as these are the best source of these natural nutrients.

Is It Safe And Beneficial To Consume Greens Powder Every Day?

It is safe for most healthy adults to consume green powders daily as long as they are not surpassing the recommended serving size.

With that said, use caution if you take any additional vitamin or mineral supplements as well as medications as there is a risk for toxicity and medication interaction with some ingredients.

Verified User Review: Feedback From Users Of Human Tonik’s Super Greens Powder

If you’ve never tried a green powder before, Human Tonik Supergreen Tonik powder is a great place to start. Supergreen Tonik users have reported benefits from taking Super Green Tonik ranging from great taste, great ingredients, and effective results. 

One user reported, “tried other healthy green products but this one by far tastes the nicest and is the most effective.” Another stated, “Have to say the ingredients are better than AG1 and taste much better. Massive energy boost 20 minutes after taking it.”

Meghan Stoops, RDN

Meghan is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist from San Jose, California. She received her undergraduate degree from San Diego State University in 2015. Following an unexpected cross-country trip that landed her in Florida, she completed her didactic training through AdventHealth Orlando.

Meghan has extensive experience in multiple aspects of dietetics including critical care, motivational interviewing, writing, and research. She is passionate about health and wellness and has dedicated her free time to breaking down complicated nutrition topics and disseminating them to the public through the arena of writing.