It is recommended for optimal health by both Canada’s Food Guide and the United States Department of Agriculture to eat 7 – 9 servings a day of fruits and veggies. According to Heart.org, a serving is defined as “Vegetables: 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables (about the size of a small fist), 1/2 cup of other vegetables or 1/2 cup of vegetable juice. Fruits: 1 medium fruit (medium is defined as the size of a baseball); 1/2 cup chopped, cooked or canned fruit; or 1/2 cup juice.”
Now I don’t know about you, but that seems like a LOT of veggies to get in in a day! It’s not like that is all you’re eating – you still need to add your carbs, fats and proteins into the mix. Seems like a lot of work to prep and eat. That said, there are so many benefits to eating greens including helping with digestion, reducing inflammation, strengthening your cardiovascular system, and being cancer fighting, so definitely something you don’t want to miss out on. For these reasons and so many more, I take a green supplement every day. I have tried a few different ones over the last two years, and this week’s blog is my opinion on each of the three I have tried, why I like them, and the science behind each.
This daily dose is one 30 ml “shot”. Super easy to add to your morning routine. Green Envy is packed with 23 vegetables, fruits and herbs. It also contains super foods including barley grass, wheat grass and broccoli and is non-GMO and gluten free. A 32 oz bottle, or a monthly supply, will cost you approximately $30 in stores and online. At only 10 calories a shot, it really packs a punch of goodness. According to Arolabs, creator of Green Envy, they have “formulated a premium blend of natural superfoods that aid in total body cellular detox which supports internal organ detoxification and healthy hair, skin, and nails.” Its detoxifying effects and prebiotic benefits aid with digestion and immunity health as well.
Personally, I find these the best tasting greens on the market that I have tried – and believe me, I have tried many different options. They aren’t overly sweet like many other products on the market, yet still taste great. With this option, you add it to water, shake and drink. I personally drink it while working out for two major reasons. First, it ensures that I drink it every day and don’t forget about it. Secondly, I have noticed a significant improvement in my energy maintenance while working out. This product manages to combine greens and phytoberries into one product, and is completely organic with zero artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or anything unnatural. According to Magnum, Performance Greens will “increase energy support, regulate stress, detoxify and cleanse, support improved sleep, balance pH, promote healthy aging, and allow your body to function at an advanced level.”
I recently came across this brand when shopping at Muscles By Meyers for a post-workout protein option. It comes in three flavors – Green Apple, Strawberry Kiwi, and Lemon Lime. I opted for the Green Apple as I was told it was the least sweet of the three options. Now don’t get me wrong – I love anything sweet, but I do find that green supplements can be overbearing in that department at times. The Green Apple is delicious. The added benefits to this option are:
- Probiotic benefits
- Supports the body’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients
- Support the body’s cells for optimum energy
- Increases energy and reduces stress
- Cleanses and purifies the digestive system
- Promotes an alkaline environment (pH balance)
- Supports immune function
- Enhances focus and concentration
- Enhances physical performance
- Enhances general well being and cellular health
- Equivalent nutrition value of 6-8 servings of whole vegetables and fruits
I honestly think all three are terrific options. If you are fairly picky about taste, and want something quick and easy, I would suggest the Green Envy as it is only a one ounce shot for the day. The other two are terrific options to sip on throughout the day or while you’re hitting the gym.
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