The only ingredients you’ll ever find in kencko products are organic plants. Nothing added, nothing taken out except water - and that’s a promise. Here’s a full list of ingredients for our smoothies. Follow the links to read third-party research about the health benefits of different plant foods.

Apples have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. One reason may be that apples contain soluble fiber, which is the kind that can help lower your blood cholesterol levels.

In one large study, eating an apple a day was linked to a 28% lower risk of type 2 diabetes, compared to not eating any apples. Even eating just a few apples a week had a similarly protective effect.

apple

Bananas are a potassium rich fruit.  Regular dietary potassium intake has been shown to improve blood pressure levels and reduce risk for heart complications.

A 2015 study displayed that banana starch improved postprandial glucose and insulin levels in both lean and obese  subjects.

banana

According to a small 2012 study, drinking beetroot juice increases plasma nitrate levels and boosts physical performance. During the study, trained cyclists who drank 2 cups of beetroot juice daily improved their 10-kilometer time trial by approximately 12 seconds, while also reducing their maximum oxygen output.

According to a 2011 study, nitrates may help increase blood flow to the brain in older people and help slow cognitive decline. After participants consumed a high-nitrate diet which included beetroot juice, their brain MRIs showed increased blood flow in the frontal lobes. The frontal lobes are associated with cognitive thinking and behavior.

beetroot

Diets rich in carotenoids may have a protective effect against several types of cancer. This includes prostate cancer, colon cancer, and stomach cancer.

Carrots are a great source of the pigments lutein and zeaxanthin. A large review study found that higher intake of those pigments was associated with a long-term reduced risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

carrot (apple, carrot)

Gingerol, the bioactive substance in fresh ginger, can help lower the risk of infections. In fact, ginger extract can inhibit the growth of many different types of bacteria.

One of the traditional uses of ginger is for pain relief, including menstrual pain. In one study, 150 women were instructed to take 1 gram of ginger powder per day, for the first 3 days of the menstrual period. Ginger managed to reduce pain as effectively as the drugs mefenamic acid and ibuprofen.

ginger

Mango contains powerful polyphenols, such as mangiferin, catechins, quercetin, kaempferol, that have antioxidant properties and may be related to aiding in protecting cells and DNA from damage as well as protection from degenerative diseases.  Studies have shown that isolated polyphenols are less effective can consuming all the polyphenols together in mango, suggesting a synergistic effect of the polyphenols working together.

mango

Oranges contain high levels of vitamin C, which functions as an antioxidant protecting our body from free radicals. Antioxidant vitamins are suggested to decrease oxidative damage, lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

A study found that oranges may protect the cardiovascular system by increasing antioxidant blood levels and by lowering lipid peroxidation, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Anemia, the decrease in the amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, is often caused by iron deficiency. Oranges are not rich in iron. However, when eaten with iron-rich food, they may contribute to improved iron absorption and reduce the risk of anemia.

orange

Passion fruit has a high antioxidant capacity, helping fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

passion fruit (apple, passion fruit)

Pumpkin is high in lutein and zeaxanthin, pigments that have been associated with reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.

pumpkin

A randomized controlled trial found freeze-dried strawberry consumption to have an inverse association with C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker. It also found strawberry consumption to reduce total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels over the course of eight weeks.

strawberries

Sweet potato is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. In addition to sensing light for vision and playing a role in eye development, vitamin A also plays crucial roles in maintaining a healthy cornea.

sweet potato

Studies have shown that turmeric in combination with black pepper and ginger may help relieve joint pain in adults with osteoperosis.

turmeric

Consumption of acai berries daily can increase antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased metabolic damage and increase HDL cholesterol. 

While no one food is a magic shield against cancer, some foods are known to stop cancer cells from forming and spreading. Both test-tube and animal studies have revealed this sort of anti-cancer effect in açai.

açaí

One study found baobab fruit extract to significantly reduce starch digestion and glycemic response in humans, which can support the maintenance of healthy blood glucose levels.

Subjects given a smoothie with 15g Baobab extract reported higher levels of satiety than those given the same smoothie without the baobab.

Baobab is a rich source of vitamin C and exhibits high antioxidant activity. It may also be helpful in regulating postprandial glycemic response.

baobab

Polyphenols in blackberries reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and have been found to reduce risk for age-related diseases, such as neurodegeneration, as well as inflammatory diseases.

blackberries

Berries are amongst the foods with the highest antioxidant levels, which protect the body from free radicals. The bioactive compounds found in berries have been associated with protective effects against chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, depression, and other disorders.

The antioxidants in blueberries have been shown to protect LDL (“bad”) cholesterol from oxidative damage, a crucial step in the pathway towards heart disease.

blueberries

Chia seeds are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega-3 fatty acids and are considered a complete protein, because they contain all the essential amino acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels.

One study found that 12-week supplementation of chia seeds significantly lowered blood pressure and inflammatory markers in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

chia seeds

The polyphenols in cacao are able to reduce blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.

cacao

Capsaicin is the active ingredient found in cayenne pepper, and is what makes it spicy. Capsaicin has been found to increase energy expenditure, thus supporting weight management.

cayenne pepper

Test tube and animal studies have shown chaga to have immunomodulatory properties by promoting the formation of white blood cells such as cytokines, which are essential for helping the immune system fight infections.

chaga

The antioxidants in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help lower the risk of disease.

Consumption of ~1 g (1/2 tsp) of cinnamon per day may aid in lowering cholesterol and glycemic markers in type 2 diabetics. This can be helpful simultaneously with following a nutritious, varied diet.

Studies conducted among individuals with type 2 diabetes have found cinnamon to be associated with a significant decrease in blood levels of glucose (blood sugar), total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides.

cinnamon

Coconut water, a natural refreshing beverage, can be used for whole body rehydration after exercise.

coconut water

A meta-analysis assessing 10 studies on caffeine and exercise found caffeine to have significant enhancing effects on muscle strength, muscle power and running speed.

coffee

Daily consumption of coriander seed powder in combination with garlic powder may aid in lowering triglyceride levels in combination with lifestyle health improvements.

coriander seed

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Cranberries contain various antioxidants such as anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, and quercetin that may be beneficial for heart health.

The antimicrobial and antifungal effects of cranberries have been shown to be effective against bacterial and fungal growth, supporting the immune system and preventing infections.

cranberries

In one study 21 individuals consumed 7 dates per day for 21 days and experienced more frequent and regular bowel movements than when not consuming dates.

Dates have a potent antioxidant capacity and the ability to suppress free radicals; one study found dates to have the highest concentration of polyphenols amongst dried fruits. Another study analyzed the therapeutic effects of dates in preventing disease due to its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

dates

10 g flaxseed per day (~1 tbsp) may aid in lowering blood lipids and glycemic control in Type 2 diabetics.  It was also shown to relief constipation. 

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega-3 fatty acids from flax seeds have been shown to reduce total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, exerting a protective effect against cardiovascular disease.

flax seed

Kale contains sulforaphane, a substance that has been shown to help fight the formation of cancer at the molecular level, and indole-3-carbinol, another substance that is believed to help prevent cancer.

Due to its high nutritional content and high antioxidant activity, kale is a functional food that may be useful for the prevention of several chronic degenerative diseases.

kale

A 2014 study found evidence that the bioactive substances in three kiwis a day can lower blood pressure. Long term, this may also mean a lowered risk for conditions that can be caused by high blood pressure, like strokes or heart attacks.

A RTC found that consumption of 2 kiwifruit per day in a balanced diet increased stool frequency and can be helpful for those with constipation.

kiwi

The antioxidants in kombucha have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help lower the risk of disease.

Kombucha appears to have strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which may suppress the growth of undesirable bacteria.

kombucha

Maca may help to delay age-related cognitive decline

maca

Lycopene found in papaya has been associated with reduced cancer risk.

papaya

Parsnips are associated with increased immune function due to their high content of vitamin C and antioxidant activity.

parsnip

Peaches contain high levels of flavonoids, which have been associated with improvements in blood lipid (cholesterol) levels.

peach

When coupled with resistance training, pea protein has been associated with increased muscle gain (thickness).

Peas are high in fiber and have a low glycemic index, making them beneficial in maintaining healthy blood glucose and insulin levels.

pea protein

Pineapple is a good source of micronutrients and trace minerals such as manganese, vitamin C, hydroxycinnamic acids, copper, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins (such as B1, B6, and folates).

pineapple

Plums gave been found to aid in digestion.

Plums have high polyphenol content (anthocyanin), vitamin C (10%DV), vitamin A (5%DV), vitamin K (5%DV), fiber 1g per 1 plum

plum

A study review suggests that the bioactive polyphenols in raspberries may be able to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, as well as metabolic and neurological diseases.

raspberries

Organic red bell peppers contain significant levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C and phenolic compounds.  These nutrients are important for their anti-flammatory benefits, eye and skin health.

red pepper

Rhubarb is a great source of vitamin K, containing roughly 40% of the daily requirements per cup. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and enhances your bones’ capacity to form and repair.

rhubarb

Spinach has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, which is the culprit of many diseases. The antioxidants found in spinach may help fight aging and reduce the risk of cancer and diabetes.

Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. These compounds may help block or reverse the damage caused by sunlight.

spinach

Evidence supports that spirulina plays a role in improving gut immunity and reducing hepatic inflammation in the elderly.

A 2016 study found that 90-day consumption of spirulina resulted in decreased body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

spirulina

Vitamin C found in tomatoes has been shown to contribute to healthy skin. Research indicates that vitamin C aids in collagen production.

Consumption of lycopene found in tomato products in combination with beta-carotene can help product the skin cells from UV damage.

A systematic review and meta-analysis looking at more than 20 studies suggests lycopene intake is associated with lower risk of prostate cancer in aging men.

tomato

Chlorophyll, the pigment in wheatgrass, has been found to aid the liver in detoxing the body 

Animal studies have shown wheatgrass to improve lipid profile, reducing LDL ("bad') cholesterol, and increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol 

wheatgrass

Inorganic nitrates naturally found in beets are associated with antihypertensive effects such as lowering blood pressure.

yellow beetroot

Zucchini is high in antioxidants which help your body to fight free radicals - toxins that cause cell damage, and may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases.

zucchini

Several studies have shown garlic to possess anti-inflammatory properties that protect against cardiovascular disease and support the immune system.

Consumption of 5 g garlic (~1 clove) can activate genes related to immunity, cellular homeostasis, and drug metabolism.

garlic

Broccoli is an excellent source of sulforaphane, a plant metabolite shown to have anti-cancer properties that may be able to excrete carcinogenic compounds from the body.

An antioxidant, this vitamin is important for immune function and skin health. One cup of brocoli provides 135% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C. 

Broccoli contains high amounts of vitamin K1, which is important for blood clotting and may promote bone health. One cup of brocoli provides 116% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin K.

In a study comparing cruciferous vegetables, broccoli was found to have the highest antioxidant capacity. The study concluded that consuming more cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli could strengthen and protect human red blood cells from free radical-induced oxidative damage by increasing plasma levels of antioxidants.

The results of another study suggest that broccoli, comprising a mixture of antioxidants including ascorbic acid, carotenoids, tocopherol and phenolics, and high antioxidant activity, can be an excellent source of antioxidants providing protection against a wide range of chronic diseases.

Broccoli contains substantial amount of health-promoting compounds such as vitamins, glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, and dietary essential minerals.

broccoli

Onion contains quercentin, a flavonoid shown to exert antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities that support the immune system and may reduce disease risk.

onion

In vitro studies found lucuma to contain significant amounts of antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, carotenoids and polyphenols.

lucuma

May improve cholesterol levels - Studies show that frequent consumption of oats can lead to lower LDL cholesterol.

oats

roasted cacao nibs

May aid in bone health - Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium. Lower levels of magnesium are associated with higher risk of osteoporosis

roasted pumpkin seeds

salt

what we put in

All the color, flavor and nutrients in our products come from natural sources. Our manufacturing processes are designed to create safe, shelf-stable foods without any artificial additives. Here’s a full list of the ingredients we screen for and exclude from kencko products.

nature’s best remedy

what we put in

smoothies

fruit snacks

oats

what we leave out

why eat more plants?

the case for freeze-drying