Experts warn of hidden dangers in popular green juices

Green juices have become a symbol of healthy living, particularly on social media, but experts caution that their perceived benefits are often exaggerated.

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Health halo arises when one attractive characteristic, for example, that something is green, organic, natural or rich in vitamins, leads us to conclude that the whole product is healthy.

Dietitians explain that a "health halo" effect leads consumers to believe these drinks are entirely healthy due to appealing characteristics like being green, organic, or vitamin-rich. However, the actual composition can be misleading. "We can automatically assume that a product is beneficial for health and energy levels, even if it contains added sugars or lacks important nutrients like fiber and protein," warns dietitian Michelle Routhenstein.

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We can automatically assume that a product is beneficial for health and energy levels, even if it contains added sugars or lacks important nutrients like fiber and protein.

The primary concern is sugar content. Many green juices derive their sweetness from fruit juices, fruit concentrates, or added sugars. Some store-bought options can contain 25 to 50 grams of sugar per serving, comparable to or even exceeding that of some sodas. While fruit itself is nutritious, the juicing process removes much of the fiber. This lack of fiber allows sugar to enter the bloodstream more rapidly, potentially causing blood sugar spikes and subsequent energy crashes, leading to afternoon fatigue or cravings.

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Sweet in taste and containing some green vegetables and fruits, people have a feeling that they are consuming something useful. This can create a false sense that you are doing something good for your health, even though you are actually consuming a large amount of added calories and sugar.

Furthermore, these beverages often lack sufficient protein and healthy fats, which are crucial for satiety and sustained energy. If a green juice replaces a balanced meal, individuals may not consume adequate calories and nutrients. Dietitians also advise against relying on such juices for restrictive detox programs or low-calorie diets, as these approaches can be detrimental to overall health.

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Many of these drinks get their sweetness from fruit juices, fruit concentrates, or added sugars. Some store-bought products can contain between 25 and 50 grams of sugar per serving, which is comparable to some sodas, and sometimes even more than that.