Greens powders are a popular choice as an easy way to take in more nutrients that we may not be getting in our daily diets. Many contain a variety of greens such as barley grass, wheat grass, alfalfa, spirulina, algae, and kelp. With so many different greens out there, we wanted to focus on three kinds that offer a myriad of health benefits: chlorella, chlorophyll, and spirulina!
The Chlorophyll Craze
If you spent any time on social media in 2021, you have probably heard about chlorophyll! It rose to fame for its possible weight loss and beauty benefits, but it has many other uses. Chlorophyll is the pigment that gives plants their vibrant green color. It plays an important role in photosynthesis and can be found in plants, algae, and even bacteria.
Chlorophyll is a free radical neutralizer that is beneficial to aid in detoxifying the body. It is chemically similar to hemoglobin, which is essential to carry oxygen to red blood cells throughout the body. Plus, it is known for its potential ability to act as a natural body odor neutralizer. Most chlorophyll products are available as chlorophyllin, a water-soluble derivative of chlorophyll in a more bioavailable form. One of our favorite options is the Now Foods Liquid Chlorophyll available in a mint flavor that can be mixed simply with water or added to a smoothie for a fresh, peppermint twist!
Benefits of Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains robust nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, antioxidants, and carotenoids. It has a high protein content (60-70%), which is unique for a plant source. Additionally, it provides large concentrations of vitamin B12, iron, beta-carotene, and trace elements. Spirulina contains phycocyanin, a pigment-protein that exhibits antioxidant properties, along with promoting healthy inflammation levels in the body. Research has also shown that regularly consuming spirulina may aid in maintaining normal cholesterol levels.
Spirulina is available in tablet, capsule, and powder form, such as the Pure Planet Spirulina Powder that can easily be added to a smoothie. Spirulina naturally has a very intense earthy flavor so for those looking for a more tasteless option, Now Foods offers an Organic Spirulina in tablet form.
Understanding Chlorella
Chlorella is nutrient-rich green algae that had gained notoriety after being studied in the 1940s during fears of a potential food shortage crisis and then again in the 1960s by NASA. This specific algae has been nicknamed “The King of Superfoods”. Chlorella contains 50-60% protein content and, unlike spirulina, contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Furthermore, it’s a potent source of vitamin D2 and B12, which is commonly not present in most plant sources.
Chlorella is popular as a detox-supporting supplement because it is known as a potential binder. A binder acts to help grab harmful compounds such as toxins and heavy metals from the body to safely release them. Additionally, it contains free radical scavenging compounds that may help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Sun Chlorella tablets is a popular chlorella supplement due to its increased bioavailability. Plus, Dr. Mercola’s Fermented Chlorella with Chlorophyll offers you a two-in-one product of chlorella and chlorophyll in a highly digestible fermented form!
We hope you enjoyed learning more about some of our favorite potent greens/algae! Do you have a favorite greens powder or supplement? Let us know in the comments below or visit us in-stores for further assistance.
