Founded in the 1990s by retired chiropractic physician Douglas Howard, Balance of Nature was born out of a desire to offer a convenient solution for individuals to incorporate whole fruits and vegetables into their daily routines. The brand’s flagship product, the Balance of Nature Fruits & Veggies supplement, was introduced in 1997, crafted with freeze-dried produce to provide a diverse array of nutrients from fruits and vegetables.
Over the years, the brand has expanded its product line to include various offerings aimed at supporting overall health and wellness.
How Does Balance of Nature Work?
At its core, Balance of Nature aims to bridge the gap between the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables and the actual consumption levels of individuals. The Fruits & Veggies supplements, comprising 31 different fruits and vegetables, serve as the cornerstone of the brand’s offerings. Within the Fruits supplement, a blend of 16 fruits including aloe vera, apple, banana, blueberry, cherry, cranberry, grape, grapefruit, lemon, mango, orange, papaya, pineapple, raspberry, strawberry, and tomato provide a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Similarly, the Veggies supplement features a combination of 15 vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, cayenne pepper, celery stalk, garlic, kale, onion, shiitake mushroom, soybean, spinach, wheatgrass, sweet potato, and zucchini, offering a comprehensive nutritional profile.
Diversifying the Offerings
In addition to the Fruits & Veggies supplements, Balance of Nature extends its product range to include a Fiber & Spice supplement, designed to enhance fiber intake and promote digestive health. This supplement blends four whole fiber sources—psyllium husk, apple, monk fruit, and flax seed—with an assortment of 12 spices, including allspice, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, fennel seed, fenugreek, ginger, mustard seed, nutmeg, and turmeric. By combining fiber-rich ingredients with aromatic spices, Balance of Nature aims to provide a palatable and effective solution for individuals seeking to increase their fiber consumption.
Balance of Nature products reflect Howard’s dedication to promoting health and wellness through science-backed nutrition. By encapsulating the essence of whole fruits, vegetables, fiber, and spices into convenient supplements, the brand endeavors to empower individuals to optimize their health and vitality. Howard’s vision, as articulated on the company’s website, underscores the brand’s commitment to improving the well-being of its customers: “Balance of Nature products are the culmination of Howard’s passion for people, health, and science.”
Key Features
• Contains freeze-dried, powderized fruits and vegetables
• Third-party tested for nutrition content, pesticides, and heavy metals
• Free from additives, extracts, added chemicals, synthetics, and sugar
• Founded in 1997 by Douglas Howard, D.C., with a focus on the “Triad of Health” philosophy
Balance of Nature has faced legal scrutiny, with a settlement of $1.1 million for false advertising claims surrounding its dietary supplements. Despite this, the company emphasizes quality control and third-party testing to ensure product safety.
PROS CONS
• Contains freeze-dried fruits and vegetables
• Third-party tested for safety
• Vegan-friendly
• Offers a discount with automatic subscription service
• Gluten-free and non-GMO
• Zero added sugar or chemicals
• May be costly for some
• Not certified organic
• Lacks specific nutrient percentages on label or website
Product Overview Ingredients: Freeze-dried whole fruits and vegetables with proprietary blends Cost: $89.95 for a one-time purchase, or $69.95 with subscription Safety: Third-party tested for potentially harmful substances
The Cost of Balance of Nature
The monthly cost for Fruits and Veggies supplements is $89.95 for one-time purchases, or $69.95 with a subscription service. Subscribers receive benefits such as free shipping and health coaching.
Expert Opinions
While the product ingredients aren’t inherently poor, experts caution against vague labeling and potential nutrient overload. They advise prioritizing whole foods over supplements.
Our Experience
Ordering from Balance of Nature was smooth, and customer service promptly resolved an issue with tracking. While the capsules were easy to consume, we didn’t notice significant effects. Despite the convenience, the high price and lack of detailed nutritional information make it a less attractive option compared to fresh produce.
Our Evaluation
The Balance of Nature Fruits and Veggies supplements provide a convenient blend of freeze-dried fruits and vegetables in a 90-capsule bottle. While the product offers some benefits, including vegan-friendly ingredients and third-party safety testing, its high cost raises questions about its value compared to purchasing real fruits and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I take Fruits & Veggies?
Answer: Balance of Nature’s Fruits & Veggies supplements are whole food-based, allowing for flexible consumption at any time of day. While some customers prefer splitting their intake, taking Fruits in the morning and Veggies in the afternoon, others opt for a single consumption, typically by 2 p.m., to capitalize on the energy boost without affecting bedtime. Consistency is key, so find a routine that suits you and make it a daily habit.
How do I take Fruits & Veggies?
Answer: Taking Fruits & Veggies is simple. Swallow the capsules with water, chew them directly, or open the capsules and mix the powder with your favorite food or beverage for easy consumption.
Do I take all of the Fruits & Veggies capsules at the same time?
Answer: Yes, you can take all Fruits & Veggies capsules at once or split them throughout the day, mimicking your natural fruit and vegetable intake habits. Whether you prefer morning and afternoon doses or a single intake, maintaining consistency is crucial for optimal results.
Does Balance of Nature replace my other supplements?
Answer: Balance of Nature supplements complement your existing dietary regimen. If your healthcare provider has prescribed specific supplements, continue taking them as recommended. Work with your doctor to explore natural ways to incorporate essential nutrients into your diet from whole foods. Balance of Nature supplements are derived from whole foods and provide vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients naturally present in fruits and vegetables.
Will Balance of Nature replace fruits and vegetables in my diet?
Answer: While Balance of Nature supplements offer nutritional support, they do not replace the importance of consuming whole fruits and vegetables as part of a balanced diet. They are intended to complement your dietary intake and help bridge any nutritional gaps. Embracing a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is essential for overall health and well-being, and we encourage incorporating them into your daily meals whenever possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Balance of Nature Fruits and Veggies supplements offer convenience, their high cost and lack of transparency may deter some consumers. Considering the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables, purchasing real produce may provide a more cost-effective and nutritious alternative.
