Nutritional Facts
To read more about specific ingredients in Vital Greens click on the relevant item in the table below:
Acerola Berry
A bright red berry, acerola contains the most potent source of natural Vitamin C and Bioflavonoids. Because the body does not store these nutrients they must be replenished on a daily basis. Bioflavonoids work synergistically with Vitamin C to protect and preserve the structure of capillary blood vessels. They help to promote circulation as well as stimulate bile production in the liver. The acerola berry is also very useful in the colon where it helps to balance the PH levels to allow proper colon function.
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Alfalfa
One of nature's richest mineral foods, alfalfa is also a great source of chlorophyll which acts as a body cleanser and a natural deodoriser. Alfalfa grass roots go down as much as 40 metres into the earth thereby absorbing rare trace elements that most plants do not have an opportunity to absorb. Alfalfa contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, 8 essential amino acids and all known vitamins! Because these minerals are in a balanced form and very alkaline they have a neutralising effect on the intestinal tract. Alfalfa is high in fibre, allowing it to bind and neutralise substances that could be harmful to the colon.
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Apple Fibre
This fibre also contains apple pectin which is a great source of both soluble and insoluble fibres. They help to cleanse the intestinal tract by gently sweeping the colon clean of compacted, putrefying, waste materials, helping to eliminate excess cholesterol and dietary toxins. Apple fibre contains soft bulking agents which binds with bile acids and helps to normalise bowel transit time and regularity. Apple fibre also helps to block absorption of toxic heavy metals and dietary carcinogens that get into the food chain and eventually the body. It helps to slow down the rate by which foods pass through the intestines, which allows for better nutrient absorption. This process ultimately helps to stabilise blood sugar levels.
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Ashwaganda (Withania Somnifera)
From the ancient Indian ayurvedic herbal medicine, one its most potent adaptogenic tonics. Also known as Indian Ginseng. Research has demonstrated how it retards various aspects of the ageing process and treat many established cases of sarcomas. Increasing stamina, alleviating anxiety and improving learning ability and memory, it is most commonly used in India for improving sexual desire and performance.
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Aspergillus Oryzae
A stable yet active source of enzymes working to enhance protein digestion. Aspergillus Oryzae is actually a beneficial mould used in the production of miso.
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Astragalus
Known to be one of the most potent herbs used to enhance the natural defence mechanism in the body. For over 2000 years it has been commonly used by the Chinese as a tonic herb to increase Chi or energy in order to combat fatigue. Astragalus helps aid adrenal gland function, digestion, protects the body against harmful radiation, promotes healing and strengthens the body's resistance to disease.
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Barley Grass
One of the most ancient cultivated foods, barley grass has been a staple human food for thousands of years! It is so rich in nutrients that it contains 30 times more vitamin B1 than milk, 7 times more Vitamin C than oranges, 5 times more iron than spinach as well as containing large amounts of beta-carotene, potassium, calcium and magnesium. It is a very alkaline food which is quite neutralising to the system. It is rich in natural enzymes particularly S.O.D. (Super-oxide dismutase), which is an antioxidant enzyme that protects cells from free radicals. Barley grass provides generous amount of natural chlorophyll which has a purifying effect on the body enabling it to eliminate toxins that could lead to dis-ease.
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Beet Powder
Being one of the best known plant sources of easily assimilated iron, beets also contain generous amounts of Vitamins A B C as well as sodium, potassium, calcium, choline, phosphorous and fibre. They help to facilitate digestion, stimulate the peristaltic activity of the bowels, and strengthen other organs such as the spleen, liver, gall bladder and kidneys. By helping to stimulate the lymphatic system as well, beets help to rebuild and tone the liver.
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Bilberry
A wonderful antioxidant, bilberry helps to increase micro-circulation by stimulating new capillary formation, strengthening them, and increasing the overall health of the circulatory system. Bilberry helps to regulate blood sugar levels while helping to inhibit the growth of fungus, yeast and bacteria.
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Broccoli
A major source of sulforaphane, a sulphur containing phyto-chemical which helps to stimulate the production of enzymes. Enzymes help detoxify the body and guards against toxic chemicals, carcinogens and mutagens which induce many chronic diseases.
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Bromelain
A natural digestive enzyme which comes from pineapple, helping to break down nutrients (especially proteins) for better digestion and absorption.
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Burdock Root
Burdock helps to cleanse and eliminate impurities from the blood stimulating the immune system. Particularly good for acne, it is also a potent natural diuretic which is very soothing to the kidneys.
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Carob
Carob is an extract from the bean pods of the Carob tree. Carob is very rich in many vitamins and minerals especially calcium. It is an alkalising food with a great taste.
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Carrot
A major source of carotenoids which are protective food components carrots contain potent antioxidant activity levels. Carrots are high in beta-carotene which is needed for tissue maintenance and repair. It is also important in the formation of bones and teeth.
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Chorella
Being a very ancient single cell algae, chlorella was the earth's first green plant and the first link in the food chain. Each cell of this plant is self sufficient and capable of life sustaining functions. Chlorella is 60% protein, and contains 8 essential amino acids, and more chlorophyll per gram than any other plant in nature! In just 1 tablespoon it provides 300% of the daily need for Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C. It is very rich in beta-carotene. Due to its rapid growth and the abundance of nutrients, chlorella offers many benefits including protection against toxic pollutants, pesticides, drugs, chemicals, atmospheric radiation, power lines, microwaves, computers and television.
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Chromium
A wonderful mineral that helps the body utilise insulin properly resulting in stabilised blood sugar levels. It is difficult to get the proper chromium in the diet due to scarcity in the soil as well as diets high in white sugar and flour that leach it from the system. It improves the absorption of glucose into cells making it useful for energy. It helps to increase lean tissue in the body promoting growth of lean muscle, and helps to normalise fat storage by improving utilisation for energy.
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Coenzyme Q-10
Because it is very similar to the structure of vitamin E, Co-Q10 is a powerful antioxidant/vitamin found in human tissue. Co-Q10 is a vital component of the energy production in all cells, especially in the heart and brain. It plays an important role in the effectiveness of the immune system and fighting the ageing process. Co-Q10 helps to improve the efficiency of energy production while helping to boost existing immune cell capacities. Vital Greens contains the body's optimum recommended daily allowance for this important nutrient.
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Dandelion Root
Dandelion is very high in iron, calcium and potassium. It also helps to cleanse the bloodstream, remove excess fluids, promote digestive regularity, and improve the function of the pancreas, spleen, kidneys and bladder. It helps to stimulate bile production, which in turn helps with overall liver function.
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Deep Sea Kelp
Contains almost every mineral and trace mineral needed for human existence as well as vitamins and amino acids. It contains wonderful radiation protection properties. Being a principal source of iodine, kelp helps to promote proper thyroid function, provide energy and helps to burn food so it is not stored as fat. It is helpful to the membranes that surround the brain called sensory nerves, brain tissue and spinal chord because it promotes necessary blood circulation.
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Flax Seed Meal
An excellent source of Omega-3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids or E.F.A.s. These fats must be supplemented by the diet because the body does not manufacture them. E.F.A.s are found in high concentrates in the brain and are necessary for normal brain function. The most essential of the E.F.A.s is linoleic acid, which flax is high in. Flax is also rich in the B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, potassium and fibre both soluble and insoluble. This helps to keep LDL cholesterol low and remove toxins and heavy metals from the body.
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Folic Acid
Known to be a brain food, Folic acid is essential in the body for production of energy and red blood cell formation. It also helps regulate foetal development of nerve cells which is needed for proper growth and development. It helps reduce levels of homocysteine (an amino acid) in the body. It is now known that homocysteine levels tend to increase with age and that these high levels contribute to the breakdown of arterial walls which can lead to heart disease.
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Ginger Root
Helps in absorbing toxins, cleansing the body and aids digestion. It helps to remove gas from the intestinal tract. Ginger helps to alleviate nausea and aids in the utilisation of other herbs in the formula.
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Ginkgo Biloba
From the oldest living tree that can live for thousands of years. It helps to stimulate cerebral circulation and oxygenation that results in increased clarity, alertness, memory and overall brain function. Because it helps to widen blood vessels, which in turn speeds blood flow into the capillaries, Ginkgo can help with hearing and vision.
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Globe Artichoke
Increases bile duct contractions improving flow of bile to the liver to emulsify fats more effectively. Research demonstrates its ability to lower LDL blood cholesterol levels and inhibit the body's own production of cholesterol. With Milk Thistle it regenerates liver cells and protects the liver from many toxins (especially alcohol) and promotes the growth of bifido-bacteria within the gut.
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Grape Seed Extract
An antioxidant that's 20 times more powerful than Vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E! It contains water soluble flavonoids that become instantly bio-available in the human body upon digestion. It also reconstructs collagen fibres in ageing or damaged tissue by binding to the collagen fibres resulting in greater elasticity and flexibility. Readily crosses the blood/brain barrier thereby providing antioxidant protection to the tissues in the central nervous system. Compared to Atlantic Pine Bark (Pycnogenol), Grape seed contains gallic esters which are the most active antioxidant component of pro-anthrocyanidins.
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Hawthorn Berry
An adaptogen and circulatory tonic which helps to build heart tone, aid circulation and keep the heart muscle strong. Aids the body in burning excess calories.
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Lecithin
Found in every living cell with the highest concentration found in the brain, heart, liver and kidneys, lecithin is primarily an emulsifier and a brain tonic. The brain is actually 30% lecithin in dry composition! As an emulsifier, lecithin in the blood stream helps prevent cholesterol from accumulating on the walls of the arteries, and helps to dissolve deposits that already exist. Lecithin is a bi-polar molecule one that contains fatty acids at one end attracting oil, while the other end contains phosphorous and nitrogen to attract water. It has the ability to keep fat-like particles in a clear solution while they journey through the arteries (a water environment) so they are unable to form dangerous deposits on the walls of blood vessels. Lecithin also helps to metabolise fat especially clogging fat (LDLs) in the liver and remove fatty liver deposits which in turn lessens the chance of liver degeneration. Lecithin helps to promote a healthier liver and a more youthful metabolic process. In the intestinal tract, lecithin helps with the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E and K. As a brain tonic lecithin provides choline which has a prompt effect on the ability if the brain to make an important chemical for nerve signal transmission which is called Acetyl-choline. This in turn is able to cross the blood brain barrier that has a positive effect on the production of chemical signals in the brain. The result is improved memory, thinking ability and muscle control. In addition to this acetyl-choline stimulates peristaltic movement in the colon that aids colon function. Important source of Phosphatidyl-choline the most important breakthrough in nerve and receptor regeneration that has been researched in the last five years in the U.S. Lecithin is also the source of phosphytidyl-serine which keeps the brain cells flexible and able to absorb nutrients more effectively.
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Licorice Root
One of the more familiar herbs, licorice root helps cleanse the colon, maintain proper blood sugar balance, fight fatigue and balance hormone levels by having a positive effect on adrenal gland function. It helps to enhance the micro-circulation in the lining of the gastro-intestinal tract. Licorice's phyto-chemical qualities keep cancer cells from dividing.
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Milk Thistle
(St Mary's Thistle) Considered the liver herb, Milk Thistle contains an active component called Silymarin, which is a powerful flavonoid that helps to protect the liver from damaging agents such as alcohol, chemical toxins, poisons and pollutants. This flavonoid encourages liver cells to regenerate, helps to increase the flow of bile in the liver, thereby helping to keep the liver healthy and strong. Liver health is essential for body maintenance and regeneration.
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Pau D'Arco
A South American herbs that contains strong adaptogenic properties. It helps to guard against intestinal parasites, build up the immune system, and cleanse the blood as well as helping to improve gastrointestinal utilisation of nutrients.
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Pro-Biotics
Commonly known as friendly intestinal bacteria, these various non-dairy strains fortify the intestinal tract, and break down proteins, fats and starches to make sure these nutrients are absorbed properly. As well as Vitamin B12, these pro-biotics manufacture natural antibiotics that destroy pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria. Pro-biotics need to have food to live and thrive on, because the goal is to make sure they multiply in your system and act as the "army". Normally there are 3 probiotics in yoghurt. Vital Greens has no less than 7 pro-biotics! These line the length of the intestinal tract and help recolonise friendly bacteria where they're needed. Our pro-biotics are freeze dried for extra stability and do not need refrigeration until the container is opened.
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Reishi Mushroom
Another important adaptogen, helping to strengthen the heart, protect the liver, normalise blood pressure, support adrenal function and help enhance immune system by increasing the production of interleukin-1.
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Rice Bran
An excellent food that provides both soluble and insoluble fibre, natural Vitamin E, a full complex of B vitamins and is a good source of silica (which helps to keep hair, skin, nails etc. healthy and strong). Rice Bran helps to regulate blood sugar levels, lower LDL cholesterol and remove toxins from the body.
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Rose Hips
Rose Hips are extremely high in Vitamin C, helping to reduce and prevent infections. In addition contains anti-inflammatory mucilage preventing kidney and bladder problems.
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Rosemary
A wonderful circulatory herb which has been shown to be helpful for muscular pain and improving circulation. Rosemary also lowers blood pressure in hypertension patients and alleviates allergies by regulating histamine release.
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Schizandra
A primary adaptogenic herb, used for many centuries by the Chinese as for stamina and as a liver and eye tonic. Modern research has confirmed Schizandra to be useful for concentration and especially for age-associated learning and memory impairment. Also improves blood circulation and increases its oxygenation.
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Shitake Mushroom
In the orient this powerful mushroom is used as both a food and an agent to enhance the immune system and the natural protective defences of the body. It is an immuno-stimulant that helps to boost the production of macrophages (white blood cells) in your immune system.
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Siberian Ginseng
Supports immunity, helps de-toxify the body of poisons and waste material and to increase energy and endurance. Containing germanium which helps to improve oxygen utilisation. Used for centuries in Russia and China to balance the body's energy by strengthening the adrenal glands and normalising blood pressure.
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Slippery Elm
A powerful nutritive and emollient, this herb possesses great strength and healing qualities. When in contact with water, mucilage cells of the bark swell and produces a lubricating emollient that helps reduce and soothe mucous membranes. Slippery Elm is also a great source of calcium balanced with magnesium.
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Spinach
A wonderful source of calcium and iron, Spinach contains large amounts of Lutein, an antioxidant that helps prevent age related macular degeneration (breakdown of tissues relating to vision).
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Spirulina
The most nutrient rich of all blue-green algae, Spirulina is 4 billion years old, and was the first photosynthetic life form on this planet! It helped to create the earth's oxygen atmosphere. Spirulina grows wild, however most manufacturers use Spirulina that is farmed in a controlled environment which helps to secure that it grows fresh and clean without any toxic invasion. Spirulina contains potent antioxidants and is rich in the following nutrients:
- Beta-Carotene: Spirulina is a potent source of beta-carotene providing 10 times more than found in carrots! Beta-Carotene yields the most vitamin A which is needed for night vision, growth, tissue healing, repair etc. It is also a very potent antioxidant that helps to protect cell membranes and tissue lining from irritating effects of free radicals (unstable molecules) by neutralising them. Epidemiological evidence is sufficient to suggest that foods rich in carotene or vitamin A are associated with a reduced risk of cancer (as noted by the National Academy of Sciences).
- Vitamin B12: Spirulina is a rich source of B12, providing 2 times more than that found in the liver. It has been called the "spark plug vitamin" of the body due to how it aids in cell formation, development, growth and longevity. It is needed for proper food absorption, digestion, protein synthesis and metabolisation of carbohydrates. B12 contains an essential mineral called cobalt which is needed for healthy red blood cells and for protection against anaemia.
- Bilirubin: Spirulina contains a pre-digestive bile in the cellular walls. It combines with lecithin to form liposomes that greatly enhances nutrient absorption by forming a surfactant around the nutrients, which means there is no surface tension around the nutrients so they are more easily absorbed in the mucosa layer of the small intestine.
- Chlorophyll: Spirulina is 1.1% chlorophyll which helps to purify the lungs, liver and colon. It also helps to clean cells and acts as a germicide in the mouth, throat and stomach. Chlorophyll is known to help detoxify and deodorise the entire gastro-intestinal tract.
- G.L.A. (gamma-linoleic acid): Spirulina is high in GLA that is an EFA (essential fatty acid of the same type of oil in the evening primrose plant) GLA is known to be anti-inflammatory, helps in the prevention of heart isease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
- Iron: Spirulina is one of nature's best natural sources of iron. It is almost 20 times higher than that of common iron foods. Iron is essential for strong red blood cells and a healthy immune system.
- S.O.D. (super-oxide dismutase): A potent antioxidant enzyme that helps to protect cellular integrity from free radical attacks while reducing the rate of cell destruction. S.O.D. also helps to aid the body's utilisation of zinc, copper and manganese. It is now known that cellular extracts from cultured blue-green algae helps protect human T-cells.
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Tomato
The richest source of a phyto-chemical called Lycopene, a red carotenoid that is a powerful antioxidant (up to 10 times more powerful than beta-carotene!) which scavenges free radicals thus inhibiting destruction of cells. Lycopene is an important preventative factor against one of the primary causes of heart disease because it inhibits the oxidation of LDL (low-density lipid) cholesterol to the form where it starts forming plaque in the blood vessels. Studies are now showing that Lycopene can decrease the risk of getting several types of cancer.
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Wheatgrass
A powerful superfood which contains over 90 minerals, including manganese, calcium, selenium and many more. Wheatgrass has a greater percentage of protein than eggs. It has a molecular structure that closely resembles haemoglobin (oxygen carrying protein of red blood cells) which may be the reason why the chlorophyll it contains is so effective on the human body, by helping it to detoxify and cleanse. Wheat Grass contains no "wheat"; it is the young plant which is used before any "gluten" is formed. Therefore, people with wheat allergies are not affected.
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