What Exactly Are 8Greens Tablets?
8Greens tablets are a popular effervescent dietary supplement designed to add a quick dose of concentrated greens to your daily routine. Founded by Dawn Russell, who sought a convenient way to boost her nutrition during a health battle, the product is meant to be a "green helper" rather than a replacement for whole foods. Each effervescent tablet is simply dropped into water, where it dissolves into a fizzy, flavored drink.
The core of the formula is a proprietary blend of eight dehydrated greens: spinach, kale, wheatgrass, blue-green algae, spirulina, aloe vera, chlorella, and barley grass. The tablets are also fortified with high levels of specific vitamins, such as C, B5, B6, and B12, along with zinc. Available in various flavors like Lemon-Lime and Blood Orange, the product is vegan, gluten-free, and contains no sugar, using natural sweeteners like stevia leaf extract and sorbitol instead.
Potential Benefits of 8Greens Tablets
Advocates for 8Greens point to a range of potential health benefits, many of which are linked to the supplement's nutrient profile and antioxidant properties. The convenience of the effervescent tablet makes it an accessible option for those with busy lifestyles or an aversion to the taste of green powders.
Increased Energy and Overall Well-being
Many customer reviews cite a noticeable boost in energy and an improved sense of general well-being after using 8Greens. This is likely attributed to the high doses of B vitamins (B5, B6, B12), which are crucial for energy metabolism.
Immune System Support
With significant amounts of Vitamin C and zinc, 8Greens is formulated to support a healthy immune system. Some users report getting sick less often during cold and flu season, though this is anecdotal.
Antioxidant and Detoxification Properties
Several of the included greens, like spirulina, chlorella, and wheatgrass, are known for their antioxidant and detoxification benefits. These ingredients may help protect the body from oxidative stress and aid in its natural detoxification processes.
The Caveats: Transparency and Potential Side Effects
While the marketing for 8Greens highlights its benefits, several significant drawbacks must be considered, particularly concerning the product's formulation and manufacturing.
The Proprietary Blend Problem
One of the biggest issues with 8Greens is its use of a proprietary blend for its greens complex. This means the company lists the ingredients but does not disclose the specific quantity of each green in the tablet. Without this transparency, it is impossible for consumers or nutrition experts to determine if the dosages are clinically effective or merely a 'fairy dusting' of the ingredients. For example, the effervescent tablet's greens blend totals just 690 milligrams, leading some to suggest it's more of a multivitamin than a true greens supplement.
Lack of Third-Party Testing
Another significant concern is the absence of third-party testing. This independent verification process ensures a supplement's contents match its label and are free of contaminants. The lack of testing, combined with the proprietary blend, erodes consumer trust and makes it difficult to verify the product's claims.
Potential Digestive Discomfort
Some users report gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and abdominal pain after taking 8Greens. This may be due to the use of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive distress in some sensitive individuals. Those with sensitivities to greens like spirulina or chlorella have also reported allergic reactions.
Comparison Table: 8Greens vs. Athletic Greens (AG1)
To understand where 8Greens stands in the supplement market, it is helpful to compare it to a more comprehensive product like Athletic Greens (AG1).
| Feature | 8Greens Tablets | Athletic Greens (AG1) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | A proprietary blend of 8 dehydrated greens and vitamins B and C. | A comprehensive blend of 75 vitamins, minerals, superfoods, probiotics, and adaptogens. |
| Transparency | Uses a proprietary blend, so exact ingredient amounts are unknown. | Full ingredient list and specific quantities are disclosed. |
| Third-Party Testing | No third-party testing disclosed. | Third-party tested to ensure quality and safety. |
| Taste | Generally well-liked for its non-grassy, pleasant taste. | Has a distinct pineapple-vanilla flavor. |
| Convenience | Highly convenient, just drop one effervescent tablet in water. | Requires mixing and is slightly less convenient for on-the-go. |
| Price Point | Less expensive per serving than many high-end powders. | Significantly more expensive due to the comprehensive formula. |
How to Use 8Greens for Optimal Results
If you decide to incorporate 8Greens into your routine, remember it is a supplement, not a cure-all. To get the most out of it, consider the following tips:
- Maintain a healthy diet: Continue to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. Use 8Greens as a nutritional boost, not a replacement.
- Monitor your body: Pay attention to any gastrointestinal discomfort, especially if you are sensitive to sugar alcohols. Stop use if you experience adverse effects.
- Consult a doctor: Discuss any new supplements with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or nursing.
- Cycle your supplements: To avoid overconsumption of certain vitamins, check labels carefully and consider cycling your intake, especially if you take other supplements.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on 8Greens
So, are 8Greens tablets good for you? The answer depends on your priorities. For those seeking an ultra-convenient, pleasant-tasting vitamin boost to complement an already healthy diet, 8Greens is a viable option. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, targeting those who struggle with traditional green powders or don't meet their daily vegetable intake.
However, for consumers who prioritize transparency, verified potency, and comprehensive nutritional support, the proprietary blend and lack of third-party testing are major drawbacks. The product's effectiveness as a true 'superfood' supplement is difficult to verify without knowing the exact dosage of each green. Ultimately, 8Greens should be viewed as a supplemental vitamin drink rather than a full-spectrum health powerhouse. It's a stepping stone to better nutrition, not the destination itself.
What to Consider Before Buying 8Greens
Before you purchase, assess your nutritional needs and health goals. If convenience and taste are your main drivers, and you simply need an extra nutrient boost, 8Greens may be suitable. However, if you are looking for maximum nutritional value and verifiable ingredient amounts, you may want to consider alternative green supplements with more transparent formulations. As with any dietary supplement, consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended before starting a new routine.
For more information on the founder's story and product philosophy, you can explore their offerings on the Grove Collaborative website.
