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Jun 13, 2023

Superfood Powders: Are They Worth the Hype?

In a world full of culinary choices, many people simply don’t like to eat fruits

In a world full of culinary choices, many people simply don't like to eat fruits and vegetables. Instead of losing out on vital nutrients necessary to carry out bodily functions, powdered versions of these whole foods have found their way onto store shelves and online marketplaces as a way to bridge the gap.

The idea of tossing a scoop of a powder into a drink and meeting your daily fruits and veggies needs seems too good to be true, and it sometimes is. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate dietary supplements, so it can be difficult to decipher between credible claims and marketing jargon. If you’re wondering if superfood powders are worth the hype, we will provide information on if they’re good for you and what to look for when buying these products.

Superfood powders are generally dried, ground up versions of whole fruits and vegetables. Some powders come from juiced foods that are dehydrated while others come from extracts.

The word superfood is a bit subjective. Officially, the FDA doesn't recognize it as a word; neither does the science community. Instead, it's a word used by food manufacturers to market products that have health benefits, mainly those high in vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens and berries are among the most common superfoods.

Here are some of the more common superfood powders you can find online or at your local store.

In general, any fruit or plant known as a superfood has similar benefits – they’re full of antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals.

What are the potential benefits of superfood powders? Here is an overview of the potential benefits.

While so-called superfood powders contain many of these benefits, you’re still losing out on important fiber found in whole fruits and vegetables. Plus, fruits and vegetables have a high water content. Together, they help keep you satisfied longer and prevent overeating.

There is a reason these powders are dietary supplements – they can supplement your diet but shouldn't be used as a one-to-one replacement for whole foods.

As the popularity of superfood powders increased, the manufacturers of dietary supplements combined several dried fruits, vegetables, digestive enzymes and probiotics into green superfood powders. For example, one brand contains 23 superfoods, ranging from kale and broccoli to turmeric and elderberry.

Whether you decide on a single powder or an all-in-one green superfood powder supplement, how do you know what you’re buying is worth it? Here are some tips to follow.

Look for phrases like "freeze-dried" and "organic." Organic products will include a stamp of approval from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Some supplements will add in flavors or sweeteners to enhance the flavor. Other supplements are guilty of adding fillers to bulk up the package's weight.

When reading the ingredient list, look for single-ingredient powders – dried fruits or vegetables and no extra additives. For green superfood powders, search for supplements high in protein and fiber.

Some dietary supplements will go the extra mile and pay for third-party testing to ensure the quality. Credible third-party companies include the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and Informed Choice for Sport.

If you decide to try a superfood powder or consistently add it to your diet, please consult with your doctor first. Some superfood powders, especially when taken in large doses, can have an adverse effect on certain medical conditions. For more information on health and wellness trends, visit the INTEGRIS Health For You blog.