Super greens -What are they?
The most common types include young cereal grasses such as wheat, barley and alfalfa, along with algaes, such as spirulina and chlorella. Most are edible in their natural, unprocessed form, but they can be taken as supplements, pills or as a juice. Studies prove that a shot of greens can help neutralize free radicals which zip around the body wreaking havoc on cells, heightening the risk for a number of illnesses including cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
The magic ingredient -Chlorophyll:
Chlorophyll is a green pigment present in all green vegetables, (including supergreens), and can be obtained through diet if we were dedicated to eat enough vegetables.
Its status as a superfood is due to its potent nutritional and antioxidant properties. It protects cells from oxidative damage by eliminating free radicals. It helps control hunger and cravings- a 2013 study determined that compounds containing chlorophyll helps suppress hunger. It’s an excellent detoxifer , Chlorophyll binds with toxic metals to hamper absorption, and research has shown it can do the same with some carcinogens. It also promotes the healing process and was first reported nearly 100 yrs ago. It is widely used in Japan to treat a variety of health conditions.
Wheat grass:
Wheatgrass juice is regarded as nature’s finest medicine with twice the amount of Vitamin A as carrots and is higher in Vitamin C than oranges! It also contains the full spectrum of B vitamins (as well as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and potassium in a balanced ratio) and is a complete source of protein. It is an excellent immune booster but in addition to flooding the body with therapeutic dosages of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients, wheatgrass is also a powerful detoxifier, especially of the liver and blood. In fact it cleanses the body from head to toe of any heavy metals, pollutants and other toxins that are stored in the body’s tissues and organs.
It is also beneficial for Weight Loss. The high nutritional content of wheatgrass can prevent food cravings that lead to overeating and drinking wheatgrass juice can make you feel fuller faster. The anti-aging properties of Wheatgrass juice are renowned as it is rich in antioxidants which fight against the free-radicals that accelerate the ageing process. It can promote youthfulness due to the high magnesium content in chlorophyll.
Wheat grass can be grown at home however you need a specialist juicer called a ‘Masticating Juicer’ multifunctional juicers that can extract healthy juice and enzymes from vegetables. It is best drank 15 minutes after extraction. Alternatively if you know of a good juice bar I would advise regular shots (finances and time permitting). Otherwise Supplements are the answer. Try New Zealand brand Lifestream Organic Wheatgrass (gluten-free ) available in both capsule and powder format – the powder can be added to smoothies. Or try Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass Cocktail. This is a combination of wheatgrass, green tea extract, lemon and spirulina making this a both a palatable and very nutritional drink. This is one of the easiest ways to add extra vitamins and minerals to your diet.
Barley Grass:
The shoots of the barley plant are high in essential amino acids, enzymes and vitamins, particularly C, K and E. It’s also packed with minerals, including iron, calcium and magnesium.
It’s available in juice, powder and capsule form, but the juice is not as widely available as wheat grass is. Although barley and wheat grasses are considered safe for those with gluten intolerance, many experts advise those who are highly gluten sensitive to consume them with caution due to the a of gluten contamination does exist. For glowing, revitalised skin try French skincare Brand Aloree which contains extracts from barley shoots and chorophyll.
Alfalfa Grass:
Alfalfa grass resembles clover, with clusters of small purple flowers and is widely cultivated as a pasture crop. It is is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and iron, plus a host of other healthy minerals and eight essential amino acids. Alfalfa is also an excellent source for beta-carotene. Alfalfa is from the legume family and is a source of protein. The calcium in alfalfa is particularly well absorbed by the body. It also provides lutein, a potent carotenoid phytonutrient that helps protect eyesight by offsetting some of the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. Alfalfa is not as widely available in its grass state, but it is available as a juice, powder and capsule.
Algaes:
Spirulina is a single-celled, freshwater blue-green algae (cyanbacteria) that’s been harvested from lakes for thousands of years around the world. Taken in both tablet and powder form it is hailed as one of the most nutritious food sources offering protection from cancer and multiple viruses. Infact it has over a 100 types of nutrients, more than any other type of grain, plant, or herb. The product is widely used as a food supplement to boost energy, maintain health, and reduce weight. It is also high in protein and is a rich source of antioxidants, B-vitamins ( as well as other nutrients). It is often recommended to vegetarians due to its high natural iron content and high B-12 content, it also contains all of the essential amino acids and is so nutritionally dense that NASA and The European Space Agency are researching the benefits of incorporating it into astronauts’ diets on spaceships and on Mars!
Spirulina (Like green tea), is also one of the most natural anti-aging products that you can incorporate into your diet. It not only improves a sluggish metabolism but it can also strengthen your teeth and your bones as well as improve you eyesight.
Spirulina is a potent detoxifier so best to start with a small dose and increase weekly. Once you see how your body responds, then gradually increase your intake. Reactions you may experience include a slight fever, feelings of Sleepiness, breakouts and itchy skin -this is caused by the colon cleansing process and is only temporary. Some people may be sensitive to spirulina. If you are one of those try Chlorella. Otherwise look for reputable brands such as Lifestream as they do a certified organic spirulina starting at €12.75 for 100 tabs, or synergy €9.95, 100g powder.
Chlorella:
Contains more chlorophyll than any other plant. Previously it was impossible to absorb nutrients from chlorella because of its thick cell walls. Modern technology can now permeate those cell walls releasing chlorella’s essential fats, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that otherwise would resist our digestive enzymes. Although more studies are needed, initial research has shown that chlorella has positive effects in those with fibromyalgia. It is also a vegan source of vitamin B12. Try Lifestream Chlorella (the top selling health food supplement in Japan). This comes in both tablet or powder form. Try Viridian’s Organic Soul Food Greens Powder 100g. It combines spirulina, wheatgrass, barley grass, and chlorella.
Re. Supergreens : it’s best to avoid Japanese sources due to recent pollution.