Dental trend spotlight:
Greens powders as veggie alternatives
Just 12% of U.S. adults eat the recommended amount of fruit each day, and only 10% meet their daily vegetable target. That’s why greens powder has become a popular way for many to supplement a healthy diet and consume more vitamins and minerals. Let’s review the positives and negatives of greens powder.
What’s in greens powder?
Greens powder, a mix of dried fruits and vegetables, is a dietary supplement that is often mixed into water, smoothies or juices. While ingredients vary by brand, it often includes leafy greens and seaweed, antioxidant-rich fruits, probiotics and more. The powder is usually vegan, organic and not genetically modified.
The potential benefits of greens powder
When used in addition to a healthy diet, greens powder can be a good source of nutrients that promote oral health. This includes calcium, which strengthens your teeth’s enamel, and vitamin A, which helps develop healthy teeth and gums.
The boost of extra vitamins and antioxidants can contribute to potential health benefits — healthy blood pressure, immune system support, prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease and improved eye health.
Potential downfalls of greens powder
Greens powder is made from dried and powdered fruits and vegetables. Important nutritional content, like fiber, is lost in the powdering process. This means that greens powders can't fully replace the nutritional benefits you get from consuming whole foods.
The verdict. Before you try greens powders, speak with your physician. Ask whether greens powders are a good supplement for you, what to look for in the greens powder and how they may interact with your medications.
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