Organic Mature Roots; Leaf; Grass & Sea Greens Proprietary Blend
Also known as: Green seaweed, brown seaweed, wheatgrass, barley grass, alfalfa leaf, oat grass, chlorella, spirulina, dulse, kelp, Ulva intestinalis, Ecklonia maxima, Ascophyllum nodosum, Hordeum vulgare, Triticum aestivum, Medicago sativa, Organic Mature Roots; Leaf; Grass & Sea Greens Proprietary Blend
Overview
This proprietary blend is a greens powder supplement composed of organic mature roots, leafy greens, grasses, and sea greens, derived from both terrestrial plants and marine algae. It is designed for nutritional supplementation, aiming to provide a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and various phytochemicals. Key components often include species like *Ulva intestinalis* (green seaweed), *Ecklonia maxima* (brown seaweed), *Ascophyllum nodosum* (brown seaweed), *Hordeum vulgare* (barley grass), *Triticum aestivum* (wheatgrass), and *Medicago sativa* (alfalfa leaf). The blend is characterized by its high content of micronutrients, chlorophyll, and bioactive polysaccharides such as ulvan, which contribute to its potential to support general health, antioxidant status, and gut health. While individual components have been studied, direct high-quality clinical evidence for the blend itself is limited.
Benefits
The blend offers several potential benefits primarily derived from its individual components. Seaweed extracts, such as those from *Ulva intestinalis*, have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and in plant models, growth-stimulating effects, suggesting bioactive compounds that may enhance nutrient uptake. Wheatgrass and barley grass powders are recognized for their antioxidant and nutrient-dense profiles, with some human studies indicating improvements in oxidative stress markers and lipid profiles. While direct clinical evidence for the blend is limited, these components collectively contribute to potential benefits such as improved nutrient uptake, immune modulation, and gut health. These supplements may particularly benefit individuals with insufficient dietary intake of greens or antioxidants. The effect sizes for the blend are not well quantified, but individual components show modest antioxidant effects. Consistent intake over several weeks to months is likely required for measurable benefits.
How it works
The blend primarily exerts its effects through the synergistic action of its diverse components. Its antioxidant activity stems from compounds like ulvan (from seaweeds) and various phytochemicals in grasses, which scavenge free radicals and help modulate inflammatory pathways. The blend interacts with body systems by supporting digestive health, partly due to potential prebiotic effects from fermentable polysaccharides like ulvan, which can influence gut microbiota. It also contributes to immune function and cellular antioxidant defenses. Known molecular targets include reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines. The bioavailability of compounds varies, with polysaccharides being partially fermentable by gut microbiota, enhancing their prebiotic potential.
Side effects
This proprietary blend is generally considered safe when consumed as a food or supplement within typical dosage recommendations. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of individuals, are mild gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating, particularly in sensitive individuals. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) include rare allergic reactions, especially to certain seaweed components. A rare but significant side effect (less than 1%) is the potential for iodine excess from seaweed, which could lead to thyroid dysfunction if consumed in very high amounts. Individuals with pre-existing thyroid disorders should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before use. The blend may also interact with thyroid medications due to its iodine content, and caution is advised. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use this blend with caution due to limited specific safety data for these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for this proprietary blend is not well established, as research often focuses on individual components. However, greens powders are typically dosed at 8-12 grams per day, often equivalent to one scoop. There is no established maximum safe dose, but excessive intake of seaweed components could lead to iodine overload. The blend can be taken once daily, preferably with meals, to potentially enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins present in the blend. It is typically consumed in powder form, mixed with water or smoothies. While no specific cofactors are required, co-ingestion with dietary fat may improve the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. Taste and texture can influence compliance with daily intake.
FAQs
Is it safe to take daily?
Yes, this blend is generally considered safe for daily consumption when taken within the recommended dosage guidelines.
Will it replace eating fresh vegetables?
No, supplements like this blend are intended to complement a healthy diet, not to replace the nutritional benefits of whole, fresh vegetables.
How soon will I see benefits?
Benefits, such as improvements in antioxidant status, typically require consistent intake over several weeks to months to become noticeable.
Does it have side effects?
Mild digestive symptoms like bloating are possible. Due to iodine content from seaweeds, individuals sensitive to iodine or with thyroid conditions should be cautious.
Can it be taken with medications?
If you are taking medications, especially for thyroid conditions or blood thinners, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using this blend.
Research Sources
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-38093-2 – This experimental plant study investigated the effects of *Ulva intestinalis* seaweed extract on *Arabidopsis* root growth. It found that low concentrations of the extract stimulated primary root elongation, suggesting the presence of bioactive compounds that could enhance nutrient uptake. While providing insight into botanical effects, its direct clinical relevance to human health is limited.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/efd2.70003 – This systematic review analyzed the nutrient composition of wheatgrass and microgreens. It highlighted that wheatgrass is rich in antioxidants and various micronutrients, supporting its use as a nutritional supplement. The study focused on compositional analysis rather than clinical outcomes in humans.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8232781/ – This review article summarized the health benefits of seaweeds, emphasizing their content of bioactive compounds like ulvan, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It suggests potential pharmaceutical applications and health support through these mechanisms, though it notes that much of the evidence is preclinical or observational, with limited high-quality clinical trials.
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