Green Foods

For years green foods have been the beverage of choice for many health-conscious people, but now research has proven that they can provide real health benefits.

The leading green food has 10 university studies proving its ability to increase energy and vitality; stimulate bone formation and protect against osteoporosis; boost antioxidant levels in the blood (one serving is the antioxidant equivalent of many servings of organic fruits and vegetables); and potentially increase alkalinity in the body.

Green foods are not meant to replace a healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, but instead can be seen as “nutritional life insurance” for those days when our diets are less than perfect. However, the main reason to take a green food supplement is to feel energized.

Green supplements may also be a way to get the nutrients found in green plants and herbs that may not be standard in our everyday diets. Most green supplements contain “superfood” sea greens such as spirulina, chlorella, kelp, seaweed, or algae as well as greens such as barley grass, alfalfa, and wheat grass. Green food drinks are a convenient way to increase our intake of colourful fruits and vegetables for remarkable energy and a better sense of well-being. They come in a powder or capsule and can be mixed with water or juice.

Today there are more than 30 green food supplements on the market. There is a green food for everyone. No longer are they hard on our palates. Green foods come in a variety of flavours: fruit, chocolate, and even coffee. There are also condition-specific formulas that address energy, detoxification, and skin and bone health, and the latest trends feature organic and low-allergen options.

To get the most bang for your buck, ask for a brand that has the science to back its claims.

Recipe: Apple Mint Lassi

4 red apples
1 lemon
1/4 cucumber
1 handful of fresh mint
1 handful of spinach
2 Tbsp (30 mL) unflavoured yogourt
1 tsp (5 mL) green food powder
Ice (optional)

Juice apples, lemon, and cucumber. Transfer to blender and add remaining ingredients. Blend and enjoy.

Serves 1.