SEP. 2017 | Prairie View A&M University 936-261-5118 MONTHLY FACT SHEET PUBLISHED BY THE FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DIVISION By Danielle Y. Hairston Green, Ph.D., Program Specialist Reviewed by Joyce Armstrong, Ph.D., CFCS, CFLE Texas Woman’s University-Denton
Nutrition Fact Sheet
WHICH SUPER GREEN IS RIGHT FOR YOU? What is a Super Green? Super greens are very dense in color and flavor due to their high nutrient content. The nutrients found in super greens help to keep your body healthy and ward off disease. They are usually dark in color and can be eaten in their natural state or taken as a supplemental green powder. Some super greens found in their natural state include kale, avocado, lime, spinach, cucumber, chard, and broccoli. One of the primary benefits of super greens is that they are high in phytonutrients. These are nutrients from plants that are necessary for sustaining human life and preventing disease. Clinical studies and preliminary research support the use of these super greens as a complimentary therapy for cancer, as cleansing detoxifiers, for regenerative skincare, countering anemia in pregnant women and the elderly, reducing the risk for heart disease and managing diabetes. What gives a food a seal of SUPER GREEN approval? Chlorophyll and Carotenoids Chlorophyll has a long history of evidence-based use for wound healing, internal detoxification, countering anemia, cancer prevention, and as a topical antiseptic. Carotenoids, the other major class of pigments found in super greens, also have a strong track record when it comes to health benefits. They’ve been shown to play a role in preventing UV damage to skin, keeping your eyes sharp, bolstering your heart and supporting lung health. What are the benefits of Super Greens? • Detoxification-eliminate toxins from your body • Immune Boost- strengthen your body and reduce cell disruption • Tissue Repair- help to improve recovery from high intensity workouts • Inflammation Reduction- reducing inflammation and preventing cell, tissues, and organ degeneration • pH balance- restore a healthy acid-alkaline balance in the body • Digestive AID- help individuals to digest their foods better Strong, healthy families are the foundation of American communities, and family and community well-being is a shared priority of all Americans. Through research and education, the Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program’s Family and Consumer Sciences component helps strengthen families and communities. Family and Consumer Sciences area of focus include Nutrition and Childhood Obesity, Food Safety, Health and Wellness, Parenting, Financial/Money Management, and Bullying. The Family and Consumer Sciences Unit does not discriminate against anyone regardless of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity. Member of the Texas A&M University System. Reference: Mayo Clinic and the Mayo Clinic Health Systems for Women’s Health, Centers Disease Control, Office On Women’s Health
What are some Super Greens? Wheat Grass: Amino acids, beta carotene, fiber, vitamins C and B, and antibacterial properties. Reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes Barley Grass: High in essential amino acids, vitamins C, E, K, iron, calcium, and magnesium. Powerful antioxidant disrupts free radicals in the body Alfalfa Grass: Rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron. Excellent source of beta carotene. Member of the legume family providing a rich amount of protein Chlorella: Known to have positive effects for Fibromyalgia patients Helps your digestive system, boost your energy, support fat loss, and detox heavy metals in your body like mercury and lead Spirulina: Vitamin K, B1, Calcium, and Iron • Beta carotene • Balance blood sugar • Antioxidant • Reduce inflammations that lead to nasal congestion Tips for getting more super greens into your body (Experience Life) • Mix greens powder with coconut water for a simple drink • Whisk into dressings for a supercharged salad • Stir into plain yogurt along with chopped nuts for a healthy snack • Make your own energy bars with a base of dried fruit and super greens powder
Livestrong.com Sunchlorellausa.com Experience Life USDA