We know greens powders provide healthy doses of vegetables and fruits, but what does each ingredient do? Garcia breaks down what to look for in each ingredient list.

Vegetables: “Vegetables in greens powders should not compete with eating fresh vegetables, although [they allow you] to get nutrition that may be missed out on when you are short on time or skip meals,” Garcia notes. Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals (think potassium, vitamin K, fiber, folate, and vitamin C) that boast various benefits, from lowering inflammation to improving skin.

Fruits: “Fruits are better eaten fresh, although sometimes its hard to get in enough servings,” he admits. “These powders are also a way to sneak in fruit and vegetables for kids.” Remember: Fruits are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like vitamin C.

Seaweed: Many greens powders will likely feature seaweeds and algaes like spirulina or chlorella, as “seaweed is high in iodine, which is an essential nutrient, particularly for thyroid health,” Garcia explains.

Pre- & Probiotics: “Pre- and probiotics are critical for a healthy gut microbiome,” he details. So a greens powder that features this ingredient means it can not only fill nutrient gaps but support healthy digestion.