- The nutritional value and risks of green juice vary greatly depending on the ingredients and manufacturing method.There is a difference with barley grass, kale, tomorrow leaves, etc.
- Check the label as some products have high sugar content due to the addition of fruits, dextrin, maltitol, etc.
- Be careful of residual pesticides and oxalic acid (antinutrients) when using kale and spinach.Leafy vegetables rank high in the EWG rankings.
- Because it is rich in vitamin K and potassium, people taking anticoagulants or antihypertensive drugs such as warfarin should consult their doctor.
- Conclusion: It's not a panacea, but it's beneficial if you choose how you choose it and how you drink it.It is important to maintain balance and not be overconfident.
Introduction: Green juice, past and present - Don't you just say "good for your body"?
Green juice is a health drink that has been popular in Japan for many years.We also remember the traditional bitter green kale juice, but recently there are many fruit-flavored and processed versions that are easy to drink, giving the impression that you can easily incorporate green nutrition.However, from the viewpoint of raw materials, additives, nutritional components, and even residual pesticides and "anti-nutrients," it cannot be said that it is safe to drink.Here, based on the information in the original article, we will summarize the impressions we have actually tried, specific points to be careful of, and how to make wise choices in an easy-to-understand manner.Check out the contents of green juice: Ingredients and sugar content pitfalls
Nutrition and taste vary depending on the ingredients used
The original ingredient is kale, but recently there are many products that are blended with barley grass, komatsuna, tomorrow leaves, fruit juice powder, etc.Among the commercially available products we tried, the ones that prioritized drinkability and contained a large amount of fruit juice were delicious, but high in sugar content.The trap of “additive-free” labeling and how to read it
When ingredients such as dextrin, maltitol, fruit juice powder, and isomalto-oligosaccharide are listed on the ingredient list, the sweetness and calories are essentially increased.Processed fruit juice has broken fibers, so it causes blood sugar levels to rise quickly, and some research reports have pointed out that it poses the same risks as sugar-sweetened drinks (such as reports showing a link between sweet drinks and health risks).When purchasing, be sure to check the ingredients label and ``sugar'' and ``energy.''Safety precautions: Interaction with residual pesticides, oxalic acid, and drugs
Risk of pesticide residues
Kale and spinach, which use large leaves, are easily exposed to pesticides in the field, and the problem of pesticide residue has been pointed out.In some years, leafy vegetables rank high in the "Dirty Dozen" announced by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) in the United States, and choosing products that are organically grown or have third-party testing data will increase your sense of security.About oxalic acid (antinutrient)
Oxalic acid, which is abundant in foods such as spinach, can combine with calcium and cause urinary stones.Oxalic acid may be reduced to some extent by heating or cooking, so be careful when drinking large amounts of raw green juice every day.Especially if you have a history of urinary tract stones or if you are a raw vegan who mainly eats raw vegetables, please consult your doctor about limiting the amount.Beware of drug interactions
Kale, barley grass, and Asuka leaf are rich in vitamin K.Vitamin K interacts with anticoagulants, such as warfarin, and can change the drug's effectiveness.Additionally, people taking antihypertensive drugs or potassium-sparing drugs should be careful about green juices, which are high in potassium.If you are taking medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist rather than self-diagnosis.Tips on how to choose wisely and how to drink
Always check the label and ingredients
We check raw materials (kale, barley grass, etc.), additives, sugar content, and pesticide measures (organic labeling and third-party inspection).While fruit-rich types are delicious, keep in mind that they are high in sugar.Adjust amount and frequency
If you want to make ``one glass a day'' a rule, try making it additive-free and low in sugar, or diluting the powder by half and diluting it with water.We have also had the experience of feeling heavy in our stomachs if we continued to take the strong type, but we felt better by diluting it and taking it with meals.be conscious of balance
Green juice is just a supplement.If possible, it is important to maintain a nutritional balance by combining raw vegetables and fruits, cooked green and yellow vegetables, and fermented foods.Don't rely too much on specific supplements or drinks.summary
Green juice is a convenient food that can easily provide green nutrition if you choose it wisely, but there are some cautions such as raw materials, additives, residual pesticides, oxalic acid, and interactions with medicines.Our team at geefee feels that as long as you follow the basics of ``reading the label,'' ``adjusting the amount,'' and ``consulting if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking medication,'' these foods can be incorporated into your daily health habits.Don't be overconfident and try to use it wisely.Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.