I've been a registered dietitian for more than 14 years and have a passion for nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. Now that I am a mom as well, I've been trying to find easy ways to get my family to eat our veggies. I decided to give greens powder a try!
Last updated: 01/04/2024
I've been a registered dietitian for more than 14 years and have a passion for nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. Now that I am a mom as well, I've been trying to find easy ways to get my family to eat our veggies. I decided to give greens powder a try!
Last updated: 01/04/2024
The 18 candidates!
I went on a journey to find the best greens powder in the market for my family. I applied a methodological approach and found the product that wins on the most important factors: taste, smell, texture, health benefits and ingredients.
Sometimes supplement brands are not very transparent and the most important information is hard to find. Read on to see how I scored the products I tried, discover the details behind each score and learn from how I found these hidden nuances — so you don't have to!
What I love:
The best tasting greens powder
Custom blend of 19 raw organic ingredients
All natural superfood ingredients
100% certified organic, vegan, gluten-free
Has probiotics and digestive enzymes for gut health
Easy to make
Supports immunity system
Made in California
No added sugars
30 day money back guarantee
What could be better:
Only available online (and runs out sometimes)
"Enso Supergreens checks all of the boxes for a super greens powder that is easy to use, tastes good, and has all of the organic superfoods needed to help aid with digestion, boost my energy levels and overall health, and promote immunity and longevity down the line"
— as reviewed by WiseGeek (2022)
All of my "greenies"!
Even as a Registered Dietitian with 14 years of clinical experience, finding the most well-rounded, healthiest and best-tasting super greens powder can be a challenging task, considering the wide variety of products available on the market. To make an informed choice, several factors need to be considered:
I purchased and carefully tested 18 products (in the picture above) that passed this test and would then go through the process below:
In action: my scorecard!
The 18 candidates!
Ingredients
Health benefits
Taste
Smell
Texture
Easy to make
Price
I wanted my greens powder to have the right ingredients from the best sources. My goal was to start thinking about health in a more preventive (vs reactive way). I didn't want to wait until I had a problem, but make sure I was getting what my body needs.
However, the best greens powder is the one you'll actually take everyday, and if it doesn't taste good, the likelihood of that happening decreases. At least I knew I wouldn't have a shot with my kids. Taste is a crucial factor!
I also wanted to make sure the powder was easy to make and I was comparing prices in the most effective way possible (per serving).
So, here are the nitty gritty conclusions I made during my experiment and I’ll give more information on the greens powder I ended up choosing. Dive in and feel free to leave any comments of your own if you’ve tried any of these brands!
There's a lot of BS around the terms green and superfood so it's hard to cut through the noise. I spent hours researching and speaking with nutrition specialists to convince my kids to give superfoods a shot. I'll share what I learned below and hopefully this helps you too!
Let's start with what "superfoods" are not. It is not a scientific term. Superfoods are not magical or meant to replace full fresh meals with whole foods.
According to Harvard School of Public Health, "a food is promoted to superfood status when it offers high levels of desirable nutrients, is linked to the prevention of a disease, or is believed to offer several simultaneous health benefits beyond its nutritional value". It might not be a scientific term, but it made its way to the dictionary. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a superfood as “a food (such as salmon, broccoli, or blueberries) that is rich in compounds (such as antioxidants, fiber, or fatty acids) considered beneficial to a person’s health.”
Fitbit's Guide To Building A Balanced Plate - Fitbit Blog
What about greens powder? Well, greens powder -- which are made of superfoods -- are described by WebMD as a "dietary supplement that helps people reach their daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals. The nutrient combination in greens powder is formulated to support your body’s immune system and energy levels while meeting the nutrition requirements for a healthy diet.".
Since Americans aren't anywhere close to reaching their recommended intake of fruits and veggies, greens powders started being endorsed by multiple doctors and nutritionists as compliments to a quality diet. Men's Health interviewed a few of them:
“I like a good greens product as a supplement for individuals who have an aversion to veggies, cannot consume enough veggies, or during travel. The best greens products have natural sources of vitamins and minerals, including key micronutrients that are often deficient in our diet." -- Abbie Smith, Ph.D., C.S.C.S., an associate professor of exercise physiology at UNC Chapel Hill.
“High quality greens powders are loaded with powerful plant nutrients and are a great way to supplement your diet with all the amazing compounds found in greens,” says Danielle Omar, M.S., R.D., an Integrative Dietitian at FoodConfidence.com.
What I love:
The best tasting greens powder
20+ superfoods
Made with organic vegetables
All natural and non-GMO
100% vegan, gluten-free, nut-free
Boosts immunity, digestion and energy
Probiotics and enzymes for gut health and bloating
Sugar free
No Stevia or artificial sweeteners
No caffeine
Easy to make
Made in the US
Third party tested
GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certified
30-day money-back guarantee
Free shipping
What could be better:
Thin powder
Only available online
Only one flavor available (until fall 2023)
Just one note: this blog is reader-supported. When you purchase products through links on this site, I may earn a commission which helps keep the site free of ads. Live it Up was in fact my favorite and the highest-scoring greens powder I tried so BestGreenPowder is an affiliate of Live it Up. I did try all of them myself (as you can see!) so I encourage you to read through my detailed review and find what might be best for you and your specific needs. I may also earn commissions from these other products if you buy them through Amazon affiliate. Thank you for your support!
★ Overall Rating ️
My ABSOLUTE favorite! Live it Up checked all of my boxes:
(1) Ingredients and health benefits: made with organic vegetables (sourced locally and produced in the US) and the mix the product is what makes this really special. Packed with the micronutrients, vitamins and minerals that most diets lack due to the deficiency of greens, the product contains a wide variety of nutritious greens (from the 'trendy' algae chlorella and spirulina to the more popular moringa and spinach) that cover the health benefits we all expect to get from eating healthier.
(2) Taste: Live it Up actually tastes and smells good. It's fresh, refreshing and it dissolves really well with a spoon or a mixer. The taste was good by itself in its simplest form (with water only), but it was easy to combine it with other liquids like milk (or milk alternatives) and juices.
(3) Price: all right, this wasn't the cheapest product I tried, but it is definitely on the most affordable side of the spectrum, especially when compared to its competitors at the same level of quality and variety of ingredients -- Athletic Greens sells for $99!
★ What I love ️
OK, did I say already how good this actually tastes? It was by far the best tasting product I tried. I would even categorize it as delicious when you mix it with milk and make a smoothie out of it. The freshness of the mint comes across in its taste and smell. Taste wasn't as much of a priority for me (as ingredients and health benefits were) but if you're seriously considering making a habit out of it, this has to be a pleasant drink. So, for those who want to think of their health in a more preventive (vs reactive) way and have a safety net of greens in your life, Live it Up is what I recommend after my research and tasting journey. I felt really great after drinking it daily for 30 days in my breakfast: more energized, focused, and ready for my day!
★ What could be better
Live it Up is one of the thinnest powders, which can be good and bad. Even though this makes it easier to mix and less chunky, it can also make it messier if you're a bit clumsy like me. Also, this product only sells online and, if you're not part of their subscription, it can run out quickly. As of now, the product is currently available on the Live it Up website!
★ Description
“Boost your greens to transform your health! Made with organic vegetables, all-natural and packed with 20+ superfoods, probiotics and digestive enzymes to improve your digestion, immunity and energy. Trust us, your body will thank you."
Preparing my Live it Up
My kids tasting Live it UP!
★ Ingredients
Live it Up is a mix of 20 all-natural superfoods like spirulina, chlorella and kale -- but don't worry, I promise you it doesn't taste like kale. Nothing against kale, but its taste comes from peppermint leaf, another green superfood.
I spent quite some time examining this nutrition table and going through ingredients one by one. I wanted to make sure I knew and understood could get behind all the ingredients I was consuming.
You can see all the vitamins (A, C, B6 and B12) and minerals at the top (calcium, for example, is known to provide support to the bones and teeth, as well as heart, muscles and nerves). You'll notice that all the vitamins are derived from the whole food on their natural form -- unlike Centrum and Athletic Greens, for example, that add synthetic vitamins to their product.
The certified organic ingredients (all listed at the bottom), as well as the probiotic and enzyme complex contained in the formula that promote gut health benefits.
You can also notice how low in calories (only 31) one serving actually is. Also, compared to others I tested, the level of carbohydrate is on the low range (4.8g or 1% of the estimated daily value).
There is so much history, research and data around each of these superfood ingredients and their holistic benefits to our health. I spent hours just studying and analyzing one of the 20 superfoods in Live it Up, spirulina.
Spirulina is a tiny blue-green algae (curiosity: it is believed to be one of Earth's oldest forms of life!) packed with nutrients. WebMD says Spirulina is an an endurance-booster, an all-in-one source of nutrients including protein levels comparable to eggs.
The Aztecs are known to use Spirulina to treat various diseases. Research ties Spirulina to potential powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, anti-cancer properties, muscle strength and endurance, and even brain-protective properties.
Update 09/2022: I became such a believer in – and unofficial ambassador of – Enso Supergreens that I decided to purchase the company and its formulas to further expand its mission to make it easy for everyone to live a healthy life! Bestgreenpowder.com is now an affiliate of Enso Superfoods!
What I love:
Wide variety of ingredients
Diverse health benefits
Comprehensive Supplement Facts
Probiotics and digestive enzymes
GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified
Third party tested
Caffeine-free and nut-free
Non-GMO
Money-back guarantee
Subscriber welcome kit
Very nice and easy-to-use website
What could be better:
Most expensive Green tested! More than double most powders in comparison at over $3.30 a serving
Travel packs are even more expensive than the pouch
Not organic
Not 100% all-natural product (this is a deal breaker for me!)
Has stevia
Has sugars
Didn't taste or smell very good
Texture was too sandy
Didn't dilute very well
Not manufactured in the US (might be an important factor for some)
Focuses too much on athletes
Does not offer free shipping
★ What I love ️
At first, this is an impressive product. The marketing and high investments on a beautiful package, brand and website help build trust and the best first impression out of all the products I tried. This ingredient list is in fact quite extensive and very complete. This product is also a great source of Biotin. The advertised health benefits cover energy, recovery, digestion and immunity. If you're interested in subscribing, getting the subscriber's kit makes you feel very special and further encourages you to turn your greens into a new daily habit.
★ What could be better
There's a lot of hype around Athletic Greens with all their advertising and endorsements lately. This leads to the inevitable question of whether the premium is worth it and how much of this is hype. No doubt AG1 is a great product and the health benefits are there (therefore the high score of this runner up), but the $99 price (almost an extra $60 compared to my first choice, Live it Up) just didn't make up for it. To be clear: it wasn't just the price. The list of cons can't be ignored: the product is not organic, not 100% natural (you can notice added synthetic vitamins listed on the ingredients side of their Supplement Fact Panel), has stevia listed as an ingredient, it's not sugar-free and it's not manufactured in the US. I also personally didn't like the smell, the texture (too sandy and didn't dilute very well) and the taste.
★ Description
"75 vitamins, minerals, and whole-food sourced nutrients in one convenient daily serving. One Scoop, 8 ounces of water. It's all you really need, really."
AG1 powder
What I love:
Dairy Free
Good source of vitamin, c, zinc and folate
Better tasting than most
Texture was great, not gritty
Shaker provided - easy to prepare
What could be better:
No free shipping
Contains stevia and sugar
Distinct taste and smell - too sweet
No money back guarantee
Can only return if product is unopened
★ What I love ️
Huel green powder makes a solid first impression with its dairy-free composition, catering to those with lactose intolerance or dairy aversion. The high levels of vitamin C, zinc, and folate are particularly impressive, addressing some of the most common nutrient deficiencies and supporting overall health. These nutrients are crucial, not just for me but for my growing boys, ensuring we're all getting our daily essentials.
The ease of preparation is another highlight. The included shaker makes it convenient to prepare a smooth, well-blended drink, a blessing for any busy parent. The texture of Huel is commendable as well; it's smooth and not gritty, a common complaint with many green powders. And as for taste, it's better than most on the market, which is saying something in the world of green supplements. My boys, usually hesitant about new health foods, didn't turn their noses up at this one, a small victory in the quest for healthier living.
★ What could be better
However, there are several areas where Huel falls short. While the free merchandise is a nice touch, the lack of free shipping unless you purchase more than one product is a deterrent. It adds an extra layer of commitment and cost to the initial trial, which is risky when you're unsure if you'll like the product.
The small amount of sugar and inclusion of stevia is a concern. While it's less than other brands, as a dietitian, I advocate for minimal added sugars in any form. The very distinct and overly sweet smell of Huel can be off-putting, making it a less appealing choice for daily use.
The absence of a money-back guarantee is a significant downside. The policy of only returning unopened products doesn't allow for a real trial of the powder's taste and effects. This lack of flexibility can be frustrating for new customers looking to test the product before fully committing.
Huel Greens powder
What I love:
High does of vitamin and minerals with most hitting 100% DV or more
Plant based
Gluten and soy free
Vegan and stevia free
Good source of soluble fiber
Taste was decent, better than most
What could be better:
Contains small amount of sugar
Higher dose of carbohydrates then most
Pricey
No free shipping or money back guarantee
Fairly new product, not many reviews on website
★ What I love ️
Suja green powder initially presents itself as a robust nutritional choice, particularly impressive for its high doses of vitamins and minerals, with most reaching 100% Daily Value or more. This aspect is critical for me, both as a registered dietitian looking for nutrient-dense options and as a mother striving to provide the best for my growing boys. The plant-based, gluten and soy-free formulation suits various dietary needs, and it's vegan and stevia-free nature is a nod towards clean eating. As for the taste, it's pleasantly surprising and fares better than most, making it a relatively easier sell to my three boys, who are my toughest critics.
★ What could be better
Suja isn't without its flaws. The presence of sugar, even in small amounts, is a drawback, especially in a product that I'd like to incorporate regularly into my family's diet. Additionally, the higher dose of carbohydrates compared to others needs consideration, given the balanced diet I aim to maintain for myself and my family.
The price point is also a concern. As a budget-conscious mother, the lack of free shipping or a money-back guarantee adds layers of risk and expense to trying out this fairly new product. The novelty of Suja means there are not many reviews to lean on for a gauge of long-term satisfaction and effects, which doesn't help in making an informed decision.
Suja Organic Greens powder
What I love:
Ingredient transparency
Wider variety of superfoods
Lots of flavors to pick from
Pre and probiotic blend for gut health
Free shipping
Multiple Flavors
No chemicals
What could be better:
Seems like a copy of Athletic Greens
Expensive product
Powder was very clumpy and hard to mix
Little ingredient transparency
No vitamins and minerals listed on DV list
Didn't taste very good - too sweet!!!
Not organic
Didn't dilute very well
★ What I love ️
Bloom green powder immediately stands out with its very low-calorie and carbohydrate content compared to most competitors. For someone conscious about maintaining a balanced diet, both personally and for my family, this aspect is quite appealing. The inclusion of a pre and probiotic blend is a nice plus, emphasizing gut health, which is an important part of overall wellness.
The variety of superfoods in the ingredient list is impressive, hinting at a well-rounded nutritional profile. The range of flavors available offers the potential to keep things interesting, a crucial factor when trying to incorporate a new health product into a family's routine. My boys are always more receptive to trying new things when they have a say in the flavor, making this a desirable feature.
Additionally, the reasonable price point and easy availability at nationwide stores add to the practicality of incorporating Bloom into a daily diet. As a busy mom and dietitian, I appreciate products that don't require a lengthy or complicated process.
★ What could be better
Bloom has its shortcomings. The powder's clumpy nature and difficulty in mixing were immediate drawbacks. A smooth texture is key for palatability, especially when convincing young ones to try something new. The boys struggled with the lumps, and frankly, so did I.
The sweetness of the product, despite its low-calorie content, is another issue. The use of stevia, while a common sweetener in many health products, contributed to an overly sweet taste that was off-putting. My boys, who usually enjoy sweet things, found it too much, which says a lot.
The absence of vitamins and minerals listed on the Daily Value list is a significant concern for someone in my profession. As a registered dietitian, I emphasize the importance of knowing exactly what nutrients we're consuming, and this lack of transparency is a red flag.
Bloom powder
What I love:
Packaging - can order different sizes, 15 day, 30 day, 60 day or even convenient packets for travel. Love that idea!
High amounts of fat soluble vitamins A and E when compared to other greens
Lots of probiotics and fiber in the product
Taste was just ok - not much to it which can be good or bad
What could be better:
Very gritty in the mouth
No free shipping if not a subscriber
No money-back gurantee
★ What I love ️
Their nutrition facts/label is the best I've seen among superfood companies. It's really well organized and easy to understand for those who are not nutritionists. The product is one of the most complete ones, with more probiotics and fibers than the average product. I also liked that it is third-party tested, produced in the US and has a wider variety of superfoods.
★ What could be better
This doesn't taste good! I didn't like it at all, and didn't even have the courage to ask my kids to try. It's a light taste, but it does taste like a mix of veggies in a juice. This by itself almost ruled Green Vibrance out for me as an option. The product also wasn't sugar-free and organic, which made it lose some points as well. The pricing was too high for a product like this and given that there wasn't free shipping and money-back guarantee, Green Vibrance one wasn't a very competitive option for me overall.
★ Description
"America's #1 Superfood.* Green Vibrance is packed with micronutrients and 25 billion probiotics that support all four pillars of health: nutrition, circulation, digestion, and immunity—improving biological requirements to run at peak efficiency, increase energy, and boost your immune system."
Green Vibrance powder
What I love:
Pretty and bright packaging
Organic and Non-GMO
Made in USA
30 day money back guarantee
Reasonable Price
What could be better:
Low amount of vitamins and minerals when compared to most! Highest DV was calcium and that was only 17%
Contains stevia and sugar
No free shipping
Did not enjoy green apple flavoring
No money back guarantee
Can only return if product is unopened
★ What I love ️
Initially, KOS greens caught my attention with their pretty and bright packaging, presenting an aura of freshness and health that resonated with me. The organic and non-GMO claim is a huge plus, aligning with my values for clean and safe ingredients. As it's made in the USA, I felt reassured about the quality and standards of manufacturing. Moreover, the 30-day money-back guarantee gave me the confidence to try it out without worries. And let's not overlook the reasonable price point – as a mom budgeting for a family of five, this is a significant consideration.
★ What could be better
However, not all that glitters is gold. Despite its promising start, KOS greens have some drawbacks that I can't overlook. The low amount of vitamins and minerals was a disappointment; when compared to others, it falls short nutritionally. For example, calcium's Daily Value was only 17%! As a dietitian, I'm looking for a product that packs a more potent nutritional punch.
Additionally, the lack of free shipping added an extra layer of expense and inconvenience. As a busy mom, I value products that come to me easily and without additional costs. And while I appreciate the attempt at unique flavoring, the green apple taste didn't hit the mark for me or my boys. They tried it, but the faces they made told me everything I needed to know.
KOS green powder
What I love:
Offers go packets
Money back guarantee
Superfoods and probiotics
What could be better:
2 scoops per serving? Only brand that required 2 scoops - I could see people only using 1 scoop out of not noticing or laziness and not getting full benefits of product
Product was way too sweet!
Lingering aftertaste
Pricey! Over 2 dollars a serving
No free shipping unless purchasing multiple products
Low fiber
Lack of listing for vitamins and minerals
Lots of products on their websites - not much info geared towards greens
★ What I love ️
Opti Greens 50's on-the-go packets are convenient for a busy lifestyle, and the inclusion of superfoods and probiotics is impressive. The money-back guarantee offers a sense of security for first-time users.
★ What could be better
Despite its potential, Opti Greens 50 falls short in several areas. The necessity for two scoops per serving is cumbersome and potentially misleading. The overpowering sweetness and lingering aftertaste were major turn-offs for both me and my boys. The price is steep, especially considering there's no free shipping for single product purchases, making it a costly commitment. The lack of detailed nutritional information, particularly for vitamins and minerals, is concerning for anyone trying to monitor their dietary intake closely. Furthermore, the low fiber content and overwhelming array of products on the website with scant specific information about the greens themselves are disappointing. Overall, while it has some redeeming qualities, Opti Greens 50's drawbacks significantly overshadow its benefits, making it a less viable option for health-conscious consumers looking for value and transparency.
Opti-greens powder
What I love:
No stevia
Has minimal sugar which comes from fruit
Comes in two flavors
Organic
Can be found in local stores like Walmart
What could be better:
Very low on vitamins/minerals and super foods when compared to competitors
Didn’t like taste, very “earthy and gritty”
I found price on the higher end of normal greens, but definitely not the most expensive
Doesn't smell good, my boys would even try it
★ What I love ️
I like the price. This product is definitely on the cheaper end of the spectrum. They still have a diverse set of nutrients, and all the important certifications, and no stevia or added sugars. I also appreciate the fact that Garden of Life can be found not only online, but also in brick and mortar stores accross the country.
★ What could be better
Every time I notice a cheaper greens product, I wonder why it is lower than the average. In this case, first of all, the probiotic count was really low (5x lower than the average greens). The company also does not offer additional benefits like free shipping or 30-day money-back guarantee. Taste-wise, I really didn't like this one! It really smells and tastes like a juice of veggies. Not for me.
★ Description
"This greens powder is packed with raw organic greens, sprouts and vegetable juices for raw energy."
Garden of Life powder
What I love:
No sugars or added sugars
3 flavors to choose from
Gluten-free, made without nuts and soy
Vegan, paleo and keto-friendly
Good texture
No aftertaste
Cheaper than most
What could be better:
Color - brownish/green color very unappealing
Taste very “earthly/grassy”. Even though I would prefer this to an over-sweetened drink - its still not appetizing
Is processed in a plant that makes other products containing dairy, nuts, shellfish, and soy.
No vitamins and minerals listing on nutrition label
★ What I love ️
Ancient Nutrition's green powder offers several commendable features that align well with a health-conscious lifestyle. The absence of sugars or added sugars is a significant plus, especially in a market saturated with overly sweetened supplements. Offering three flavors provides some variety, catering to different palates and making it a versatile choice for families like mine. The product's compatibility with gluten-free, vegan, paleo, and keto diets speaks to its inclusiveness and adaptability to various dietary needs, which is crucial in my diverse client base and even within my own family.
The good texture and lack of aftertaste are noteworthy positives. Unlike many other supplements that leave a lingering, often unpleasant taste, Ancient Nutrition seems to have nailed a formula that's more agreeable to keep up with daily consumption. The affordability and the fact that no subscription is required offer flexibility and ease for budget-conscious consumers. As a mother constantly managing household expenses, this is an attractive feature.
★ What could be better
Despite its promising aspects, Ancient Nutrition has some notable downsides. The brownish/green color is visually unappealing, which might not seem like a big deal, but first impressions count, especially when introducing new foods to children. My boys are particularly sensitive to the appearance of their foods, and this uninviting hue was a hard pass for them.
The processing of the product in a plant that handles dairy, nuts, shellfish, and soy could pose a problem for individuals with severe allergies or strict dietary restrictions. It introduces a level of risk and discomfort that many might not be willing to overlook.
Ancient Nutrition super greens powder
What I love:
pretty, clean packaging
Great price
Can be purchased at nationwide stores like Walmart
Gluten free, dairy free, soy free, Organic, non gmo
What could be better:
Foamy texture once settles
Too sweet for my liking
Contains stevia and sugar
Lack of vitamins and minerals when compared to other brands
Nothing over even 10% when looking at DV needs
Besides basic information and a few reviews, website doesnt contain much information
★ What I love
ORA's green powder certainly makes a good first impression with its pretty, clean packaging. It's the kind of product that stands out on the shelf and invites you to take a closer look. The great price point and availability at nationwide stores like Walmart and Amazon are big pluses, making it accessible and budget-friendly for a busy mom like me. The commitment to being gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, organic, and non-GMO resonates with my professional values as a dietitian and my personal needs as a mother. It's reassuring to know I'm providing something wholesome to my three boys. ️
★ What could be better
First of all, this is the second most expensive product after Athletic Greens. There were definitely less certifications than other companies and the lack of probiotics made this a no-go for me. In addition, the taste was too sweet for me and stevia is not ideal. I'd rather go with a lighter powder that uses mint to make it taste and smell better. If you're considering spending this much money on a greens, I'd consider going with Athletic Greens over Tonik.
★ Description
"No day is ever the same. Bad food, stress, and poor sleep make it impossible to fuel correctly. Supergreen TONIK is the world's first brain and body formula that adapts to your body's needs, keeping you fuelled and ready to go every day."
Ora green powder
What I love:
Good taste If you like Matcha flavoring
Has milk thistle which is good for liver function and health
Reasonably Priced
Gluten and soy free
What could be better:
I know this one is popular but I did not like the smell of this one! Very strong and off-putting.
After taste lingered for me (kept belching it up)
Watery in appearance after mixing and settling
Seemed more herbal based rather than providing a ton of vitamins and minerals with lack of super foods
Have to be a subscriber for free shipping
★ What I love ️
Honestly, the 365-day money back guarantee. It's the best available in the market. Greens companies usually don't offer money-back and when they do, it comes to 30 days. The lower price of this product and the really competitive money-back guarantee really make Beyond Greens stand out from the competition. This is a great option for those who are looking for a product on the cheaper side. This would be my top choice of the lower end products. Both Live it Up (#1) and Athletic Greens (#2) are on the higher end of the premium spectrum when it comes to quality and variety of ingredients and superfoods.
★ What could be better
The variety of superfoods killed it for me. It's not a very comprehensive product and the much smaller serving size (3.8g vs 8-10g average) makes me doubt if this product is cheaper only because there's less product in it. I also didn't love the taste as much as their smell. It felt a bit artificial, even though they don't seem to have artificial ingredients. I didn't like that their formula has stevia, which is a (somewhat controversial) natural sweetener. This super greens blend is a bit "sandy" and not frothy at all, which makes it look and feel more like a green juice than a smoothie.
★ Description
"Beyond Your Average 'Green' Drink: Beyond Greens by Live Conscious supports a healthy immune system, harmonious gut health, whole-body detoxification, and clean energy."
Beyond Greens powder
What I love:
Has a minty flavor, better than most products
Contains Ashwagandha for stress and cognitive functions
Good source of fiber
Contains turmeric which is great for inflammation
60 day money back guarantee
What could be better:
Texture leaves residue in mouth
Pricer than most
Lack of vitamin and minerals compared to other brands
Contains nuts
Free shipping only with subscription
★ What I love ️
I liked the certifications that Organifi presents, some of them are pretty unique to the company, like "Glyphosate Residue Free" and "Vitamin Angels". I liked how their benefits are focussed on stress, food cravings, and hydration/balance.
★ What could be better
First of all, this was a really expensive product for the variety of superfoods it contained (only 11!). It also has stevia and sugars as well as caffeine. In addition, I really did not enjoy how sweet it was. It made me think that there's an additional ingredient in there that's making it outstandingly sweet. I couldn't identify what it was, but something is making this product the sweetest one in the category.
★ Description
"Stress, cravings, and hormones can all be connected to cortisol levels. Since having a healthy cortisol pattern throughout the day is essential, a daily glass of green juice first thing can support: responses to stress, food cravings, hydration & balance - bringing the body back to its naturally-balanced state."
Organifi powder
What I love:
Contains Fruits and Veggies
Gluten-free
Probiotics and digestive enzymes
No sugars added
Recipes on website for vareity
Also comes in flavored options
Also available in stores
What could be better:
Not organic
Not many vitamins and minerals when compared to other brands
None of the vitamins listed went over 60% of DV Needs
No free shipping or money back guarantee
Strong smell, not appealing
★ What I love ️
I liked that the product comes with two different flavored options (chocolate and berry). The price is very competitive and the product is also available in stores. The product covers digestion and immunity as health benefits, even though it's unclear how many probiotics (CFU count) there is in the product since they do not disclose it.
★ What could be better
Every time a greens has a more competitive price than average, something's gotta give. In this case, the product doesn't seem to have enough probiotics and has a very limited variety of superfoods. Also, I've never eaten grass, but this is how I imagine it tastes like -- not good. In addition to the grass taste, it has a smoked element to it that I couldn't figure out where it comes from. None of the other powders tasted like this one. This one really wasn't for me. Its smell and texture also reinforced the grassy element of this powder.
★ Description
“Our most popular powder blend thoughtfully combines our alkalizing farm fresh greens and wholesome fruits and veggies with nutrient-rich superfoods for a delicious way to feel amazing everyday. It’s a simple way to support your overall health and wellness.”
Amazing Grass powder
What I love:
Made in USA
Free shipping
Money back guarantee
Has a high amount of Biotin
No sugar
Has Ashwagandha which is great for stress reduction and brain cognition
What could be better:
Taste was just too sweet!
Smell was too sweet! I dont think I could drink this everyday faithfully without getting sick of the sweetness
Super green alright - in color! Found the super dark green color unappealing to drink! Especially if trying to get kids to drink it
So expensive! Almost double what most greens cost
★ What I love ️
I always appreciate when a company (especially a superfood company) is transparent with its ingredients. I like the 365 money-back guarantee and the texture of the powder was also really good here. For those who prefer having a sweet taste (at the expense of stevia as an ingredient), this can be an option.
★ What could be better
First of all, this is the second most expensive product after Athletic Greens. There were definitely less certifications than other companies and the lack of probiotics made this a no-go for me. In addition, the taste was too sweet for me and stevia is not ideal. I'd rather go with a lighter powder that uses mint to make it taste and smell better. If you're considering spending this much money on a greens, I'd consider going with Athletic Greens over Tonik.
★ Description
"No day is ever the same. Bad food, stress, and poor sleep make it impossible to fuel correctly. Supergreen TONIK is the world's first brain and body formula that adapts to your body's needs, keeping you fuelled and ready to go every day."
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Supergreen Tonik powder
What I love:
Organic superfoods
All-natural superfoods
Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free
Tastes fresh, but very matcha-heavy
Transparency about ingredients and source
Price is competitive (even though ingredients are much more limited)
Ingredients that benefit immunity and oxidative stress
30 day money back guarantee
Your Super is a B Corporation
What could be better:
Very few ingredients (only 6)
More limited health benefits
Taste is not as good
Missing probiotics and other key ingredients that other greens offer
Powder was a bit chunky
Doesn't come with a scoop
★ What I love
The transparency of Your Super is what I loved the most. Their greens powder is a veggie powder supplement with a few but powerful ingredients, and their website explicitly mentions which these are, where they come from, and their benefits. I love that Your Super is a B Corporation, a certification that comes with all sorts of environmental and social requirements. Also, the price!
★ What could be better
Well, we cannot deny that the ingredient list is significantly more restricted than all the other greens powders I tried. If you're looking for a simple product, this is for you -- but if you're hoping to get a daily intake of a variety of greens, this product won't do it and you're better off paying a bit more to get more out of your greens. In addition, Your Super's greens powder really feels, tastes and smells like matcha, so for those who don't like or even love matcha (or green tea, really), taking it everyday can be an issue. I don't have a particular problem with it, but it wasn't my absolute favorite taste. I didn't like that it doesn't come with a scoop -- makes the whole process less practical.
★ Description
"The easiest way to get more greens! This powerful superfood smoothie mix combines 6 nutritious greens to support your health. Provides a portion of your daily greens. Contains nutritious superfoods like moringa and spirulina. Add daily to your green smoothie or juice."
The Your Super powder
What I love:
Organic
A nice amount of fiber per serving
Has probiotic and beetroot for immunity
Money back guarantee
Price is comparable
Found the smell is be appealing in that it did not have a strong over powering scent
What could be better:
Didnt have much flavor and had a lingering slight aftertaste. Like I wanted to wash my mouth out with water after each taste.
A higher amount of sugar when compared to most
Very gritty texture, did not dissolve well
No free shipping
Lack of vitamins and minerals when compared to most
★ What I love ️
We obviously don't buy a product thinking that we'll need to return it, but it happens. Nested has one of the most return-friendly options in the market. I also love when the product is third party lab tested -- it definitely adds a lot of credibility to the product. Nested organizes their supplement facts in a really easy way. The scoop with the longer handle is also a nice touch, since it's always hard to have to dig into the bottom of the powder to find it when your powder is almost all gone.
★ What could be better
It wasn't my favorite taste at all; the smell was the worst out of all the products I tested. I couldn't get past it. I also thought the product was a lot more expensive than what it should be, especially considering that it does not offer free shipping. I would not recommend Nested.
★ Description
“Nested Naturals Super Greens helps promote healthy energy levels, healthy detoxification and immune function.”
Nested powder
What I love:
50 plus super foods and provides a probiotic
High in B12
Gluten-free
Made in USA
Pricing is comparable to most greens
What could be better:
The flavor was TERRIBLE to me - no way I can finish an entire glass - I would rank this worst out of all 18
Had a very strong and distinct taste
Bad aftertaste that lingered
Strong smell - and taste like it smells
★ What I love ️
Primal Greens stands out initially with its promise of over 50 superfoods and a dose of probiotics, a dream for anyone invested in comprehensive nutrition. The inclusion of a high B12 content is particularly impressive, catering to energy and neurological health, aspects I keenly focus on. Its gluten-free formulation and Made in the USA label offer reassurances of quality and safety, aligning with the high standards I set for both my clients and my family. The competitive pricing also makes it an accessible option for families looking to enhance their diet without breaking the bank. Availability in chain stores like Walmart adds a layer of convenience, which is always a bonus for a mother of three.
★ What could be better
However, the experience with Primal Greens was overshadowed by significant drawbacks in taste and smell. As someone who values not only the nutritional content but also the sensory experience of food, the flavor of Primal Greens was jarringly unpleasant, making it challenging to consume a full glass. My sons, usually eager and open-minded about trying healthful options, were immediately put off by the taste and strong, lingering aftertaste, making it clear that this wouldn't be a sustainable addition to our routine.
The distinct and strong taste, coupled with an equally potent smell, made each attempt to incorporate Primal Greens into our day a daunting task. No amount of nutritional benefit can outweigh the importance of a product being enjoyable and palatable, especially when trying to foster healthy habits in children.
Primal Greens powder
So to recap, I was looking for a greens powder because life gets crazy sometimes and I wanted to make sure I had a safety net of greens I could count on. To be honest, I didn't go into this thinking I'd fall in love with any of them, let alone start a subscription and create a new morning ritual.
My comparison chart with the final scores
Live it Up checked all of my boxes. It has a wide range of high quality nutritious ingredients with multiple health benefits, from energy to digestion to immunity, it actually tastes delicious (like a smoothie with fresh mint) and has a very competitive price.
Their ingredient list is as transparent as it can be, front and centered on their site and packaging. These are all superfoods with high nutrient density and certified organic ingredients that our body needs to function in the best way possible. Elso also checks the box for all the main allergies with a nut, gluten, dairy, caffeine and sugar-free product.
Overall I'm thrilled that I found a greens powder that is healthy and tastes good. I hope you found this review helpful and that you also find your daily organic greens powder that can help make sure you're getting what you need every day!
My Research Links:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/precious-metals-and-other-important-minerals-for-health
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina#TOC_TITLE_HDR_11
https://www.webmd.com/diet/spirulina-health-benefits#1
https://medcraveonline.com/MOJFPT/chlorella-and-spirulina-microalgae-as-sources-of-functional-foods-nutraceuticals-and-food-supplements-an-overview.html
https://www.freshspirulina.com.au/spirulina-benefits/what-is-spirulina/
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/superfoods/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/greens-powder-are-there-health-benefits#1
https://www.menshealth.com/nutrition/a36119554/best-green-powders/
I've been a registered dietitian for more than 14 years and have a passion for nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. Now that I am a mom as well, I've been trying to find easy ways to get my family to eat our veggies. I decided to give greens powder a try!
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