Greens n ginger is a popular health drink made by blending leafy greens, fresh ginger, and water. It has become a trendy wellness beverage that people drink for its potential health benefits. But is greens n ginger actually good for you? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and find out.
What’s in Greens n Ginger?
A basic greens n ginger drink contains just a few main ingredients:
- Leafy greens – spinach, kale, chard, etc.
- Fresh ginger
- Water
Some recipes may also include:
- Fruit – apple, lemon, lime, etc.
- Herbs – mint, basil, parsley
- Spices – cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper
The leafy greens provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Ginger adds a spicy kick and has anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit and herbs provide additional flavors and nutrients.
Potential Health Benefits
Drinking greens n ginger may offer several potential health benefits:
1. Provides Nutrients
Leafy greens like spinach and kale contain many important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of the key nutrients found in greens include:
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Supports immune system and eye health |
| Vitamin C | Powerful antioxidant that supports immune function |
| Vitamin K | Important for blood clotting |
| Folate | Important for cell growth and DNA production |
| Potassium | Supports heart health and muscle function |
| Magnesium | Supports bone health and energy levels |
By blending and drinking several cups of leafy greens per day, you can easily meet your recommended daily intake of many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Supports Digestion
Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for digestive issues. Compounds in ginger called gingerols are thought to help stimulate saliva and bile production, supporting digestion. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce gut inflammation and discomfort.
The high fiber content of leafy greens can also promote healthy digestion and regularity. Greens help add bulk and move food through the digestive tract efficiently.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation is thought to contribute to many modern health conditions. Greens n ginger provides several powerful anti-inflammatory nutrients.
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. Leafy greens provide antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene that help reduce inflammation. Other anti-inflammatory nutrients in greens may include quercetin, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Drinking greens n ginger regularly may help lower inflammation, reducing risk of inflammatory diseases.
4. Supports Heart Health
Some research shows that consuming leafy greens and ginger may benefit heart health in several ways:
- Lowers cholesterol – Soluble fiber in greens can reduce LDL cholesterol
- Lowers blood pressure – Nitrates in greens widen blood vessels to improve flow
- Reduces blood clots – Vitamin K helps prevent dangerous clot formation
- Improves blood flow – Gingerols in ginger relax arteries and support circulation
By supporting healthy cholesterol, blood pressure, and circulation, greens n ginger may help reduce risk of heart disease – the #1 cause of death worldwide.
5. Supports Immune Function
Leafy greens and ginger both provide nutrients that support a healthy immune system:
- Vitamin C – Powerful antioxidant found in greens that supports immune cell function
- Beta-carotene – Antioxidant in greens that converts to immune-boosting vitamin A
- Zinc – Trace mineral in greens critical for immune cell development
- Gingerols – Anti-inflammatory compounds that may enhance immune response
Getting your fill of immune-supporting nutrients from greens n ginger may help reduce risk of infections and illness.
Possible Downsides
While greens n ginger has many potential upsides, there are a few possible downsides to consider:
Nutrient Bioavailability
Blending leafy greens may make it harder for the body to absorb some nutrients. For example, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K may not be adequately absorbed without fat present. Blending also damages the greens’ cell structure, releasing oxalic acid which can bind minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc making them less bioavailable.
To boost nutrient absorption, consider adding healthy fats like avocado, nut butter, or olive oil to your greens n ginger smoothie.
High Oxalate Content
Leafy greens like spinach and kale have a moderately high content of oxalates. Oxalates are antinutrients that can bind to minerals like calcium and contribute to kidney stone formation in some people. Those prone to kidney stones may want to limit high-oxalate greens.
Blood Thinning Effect
Ginger has a mild blood thinning effect, so people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications should consult their doctor before consuming large amounts of ginger. Ginger may also increase risk of bruising and bleeding in some individuals.
Caffeine Sensitivity
Drinking juices and smoothies provides a concentrated dose of nutrients that can quickly enter the bloodstream. This may cause issues for those sensitive to stimulants like caffeine. Greens like spinach and kale contain low amounts of caffeine that some people may need to limit.
How to Make Greens n Ginger
It’s easy to make greens n ginger at home. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups leafy greens (spinach, kale, chard, etc.)
- 1 inch knob fresh ginger
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 apple, orange, or lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Wash greens thoroughly and trim any thick stems.
- Peel ginger and cut into chunks.
- Add greens, ginger, water, ice and fruit (if using) to high-speed blender.
- Blend until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Drink immediately or store in air-tight container in refrigerator up to 24 hours.
Feel free to customize your greens n ginger blend with different greens, fruits, herbs and spices based on your preferences.
The Bottom Line
Drinking greens n ginger smoothies and juices packs a nutritious punch. The leafy greens provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Ginger adds anti-inflammatory compounds and aids digestion. Together, these ingredients may help reduce inflammation, support heart and immune function, and promote overall good health.
However, blending greens may impact nutrient bioavailability, and greens and ginger both contain compounds that could cause issues in high amounts for some people. Overall though, drinking greens n ginger in moderation is likely safe and healthy for most people.
Whip up this super simple, superfood beverage to give your diet a boost of nutrients and plant compounds. Just remember – drink your greens and spice things up with ginger!
