SUPER GREENS – What are they?

Supergreens are considered one of the best sources of nutrition available.
The supermarket is full of greens — kale, chard, spinach, lettuce — but the term ‘super-green’ typically refers to a small group of greens from the algae and cereal grass families.

Who wants a shot of algae or grass?

There are easy ways to get them down the hatch – powder, liquid or tablet
Super-greens are packed with a wide array of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and enzymes that are easily absorbed by the body.
They contain high levels of chlorophyll and antioxidants.
Because of their highly concentrated nutrient profile, super-greens are believed to help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, and promote healthy digestion.

ALGAES

SPIRULINA
Blue green algae
Rich in – protein (60-65%), B vitamins (including B12), vitamin K, amino acids, EFA and other minerals.
Good for vegans.
Immune boosting, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic.
Also – improves cardio-vascular health, good bacteria in bowel, assists in detox and helps fight infectious organisms in the gut.

CHLORELLA
Water grown, single celled micro-algae – rich in chlorophyll, great detox aid
helps prevent absorption of heavy metals rich in B-vits, Vit C, betacarotene, trace minerals.
Alkalizing, internal deodorant, cleansing blood and boosting blood oxygenation.
Initial research has shown that chlorella may have positive effects in those with fibromyalgia.

GRASSES

WHEAT GRASS
Around 70 % chlorophyll
High amounts of amino acids, beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins and antibacterial properties.
A leading source of vitamin K, also may be associated with reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and alkalizing.
Used for digestive health as supports growth of healthy intestinal flora
ALSO has SOD (super oxide dismutase = body’s first line of defence against free radical).

BARLEY GRASS
Most alkalizing of the supergreens.
Good anti-inflammatory, thus helps with arthritis and also stomach ulcers, even acne.
High in essential amino acids, enzymes and vitamins, particularly C, K and E.
Packed with minerals, including iron, calcium and magnesium.

BROCCOLI SPROUTS
Powerful effects on detoxification, specifically phase 2 liver detoxification.
Assists in elimination of highly toxic substances from the body.
Aids in protecting cells against cancer-causing substances.

ALFALFA GRASS
Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and iron, plus a host of other healthy minerals and eight essential amino acids.
Excellent source for beta-carotene.
Grasses such as alfalfa also provide lutein, a potent carotenoid phytonutrient that helps protect eyesight by offsetting some of the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.

Some of the benefits that people who consume supergreens report: increased energy, reduced cravings for sweets, and an overall sense of clarity and well-being.

Supergreens may not be a magic bullet, but they can be beneficial by providing missing nutrients.

November newsletter was about Green Smoothies – and this one is about the Super-greens such as Algaes and Grasses.