Balance of Nature Review: Do These Capsules Really Work?

These Fruits and Veggies supplements may offer whole-food ingredients to support a healthy diet, but I’d recommend greens powders instead.

By Rachel Gargano, MS, RD, CSSD, CBS

— On Feb 19, 2025

Balance of Nature Review: Do These Capsules Really Work?

In this article:

In the past decade, dietary supplements have been one of the biggest topics my clients ask about. To be fair, I think supplements can offer incredible health benefits for many people, especially considering that only 9% of Americans get enough daily fruits and veggies.

However, not all supplements are created equal. I took a closer look at Balance of Nature’s Fruit and Veggie capsules to determine whether they’re worth the price tag. Below, you’ll find my full review of the Balance of Nature supplements, along with why I think Live it Up is the best option for overall health.

In this article:

Is Balance of Nature Worth a Try?
What Is Balance of Nature?
Purported Health Benefits
Ingredient Breakdown
Quality and Safety
Cost Analysis
Why I Recommend Live it Up Super Greens

Balance of Nature Quick Facts

Key ingredients:
- 16 whole fruits and 15 whole vegetable ingredients
- Fruit capsules contain aloe vera, cherry, orange, pineapple, grapefruit, cranberry, papaya, plus 9 other nutrient-dense fruits
- Vegetable capsules contain broccoli, cayenne, shiitake mushroom, kale, wheatgrass, and 10 other healthy vegetables
Manufacturer health claims: A quick and easy way to meet your daily recommended servings of fruits and veggies.
Possible side effects: May cause digestive upset such as bloating, nausea, or constipation. Allergic reactions are rare but possible for some people.
Calories per serving:
- Fruit capsules: 10 calories
- Vegetable capsules: 5 calories
Container size: 30 servings per bottle
Serving size: 6 capsules (3 Fruit capsules and 3 Veggie capsules)
Price: $89.95 for the Fruits and Veggies supplements (save $20 with subscription)
Shipping: Free for subscriptions

Is Balance of Nature Worth a Try?

After reviewing customer reviews, the ingredient list, scant nutrient information, and past FDA concerns regarding product safety and quality, I do not think Balance of Nature supplements are worth a try. Compared to the transparent vitamin and nutrient information, robust ingredient list, affordable price, and GMP-certified practices, Live it Up Super Greens is by far more worthy of your time and money.

What Is Balance of Nature?

Since 1997, retired chiropractic physician Douglas Howard has been striving to make it easier for everyone to get their full servings of fruits and veggies. Balance of Nature was formed to do exactly this–make whole-food nutrition easy, convenient, and accessible to a range of diets.

The business offers three supplement capsules: the Fruits and Veggies capsules and the Fiber and Spice Blend capsules. Balance of Nature recommends taking the Fruits and Veggies capsules daily, ideally accompanied by the Fiber and Spice Blend for comprehensive nutrition.

Balance of Nature supplements come in convenient capsules, making them great for people who dislike the taste of green powder supplements. They can be chewed or swallowed, depending on your preference.

One serving requires a total of six capsules per day: 3 of the fruit capsules and 3 of the veggie capsules. The fruit capsules contain 10 calories and 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The veggies capsules contain 5 calories and 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving.

Balance of Nature Pros

Capsules can be swallowed or chewed, good for those who dislike the flavor of green juices
No additives, artificial sweeteners, or fillers
Safe for a range of diets: Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO
Free shipping for recurring orders

Balance of Nature Cons

Daily servings of 6 capsules per day
High price tag, especially considering the lack of organic ingredients
No digestive enzymes, probiotics, or adaptogens
Past FDA regulatory concerns
New member fee for new subscribers
Concerning customer reviews

Balance of Nature Supplements Purported Benefits

Balance of Nature offers their three main capsule products: Fruits, Veggies, and Fiber and Spice capsules. Together, these three supplements make up what Balance of Nature calls the "whole health system." Though each product contains powdered whole foods to target your overall health, Balance of Nature does not attest to targeting any specific health benefits like immunity, gut health, and energy levels like most greens supplements on the market.

Whole-Food Nutrition

Overall, these capsules seem to do what they set out to do, which is offer whole-food ingredients to help supplement a modern diet. However, I’m dubious whether or not these fruits and veggies actually help fill nutritional gaps needed to supplement a modern diet. The vitamin and mineral facts for each product are not disclosed, which makes it difficult to determine whether you’re getting sufficient amounts of the vitamins and minerals provided by plants.

Here’s what I can conjecture for potential benefits based on the ingredient lists:

Digestion: The vegetable capsules may provide some fiber to support digestive function due to fibrous ingredients like broccoli, carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes (though no gram count is listed for fiber). Additionally, papaya is a natural source of the digestive enzyme, papain, which may provide additional digestive support.
Immunity: When we’re considering specific vitamins and minerals, experts recommend vitamins A, C, D, and E, plus minerals zinc and selenium for immune health. Balance of Nature’s fruit capsules include orange and grapefruit, which are rich in vitamin C. The fruit and veggie capsules also contain some natural sources of zinc from broccoli, blueberries, and tomatoes.

As a dietitian, I only recommend products that offer transparency about their vitamin and mineral content so that my clients can choose supplements that best support their lifestyle and health needs. I am concerned that Balance of Nature capsules include no micronutrient information and likely lack sufficient amounts of each ingredient to offer comprehensive nutrition.

Balance of Nature Ingredient Breakdown

The Balance of Nature supplements contain 31 simple, whole-food ingredients when taken together. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the biggest ingredient groups found in these unique capsules.

Fruits Supplement

The Fruits capsules consist of three unique blends of fruits, each with a distinct name that feels created with consumers in mind. Though the blends have a nice ring to them—maintain, fend, and refresh blends—there is insufficient evidence to suggest that they fully live up to their names. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients found in these proprietary blends:

Maintain Blend

Tomato, banana, papaya, apple, grape, wild blueberry, strawberry, and aloe vera are packed in this blend.
Many of these fruits are excellent sources of antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radicals.
Additionally, apples and aloe vera have been linked to healthy digestion.
Based on the name of this blend, I assume that Maintain is designed to help maintain overall wellness through these antioxidant and vitamin-rich ingredients. However, I remain skeptical whether the capsules are actually effective.

Fend Blend

With a mix of oranges, grapefruit, cranberries, grapes, apples, blueberries, and aloe vera, the Fend Blend likely targets immunity.
Many of the ingredients included in this blend overlap with the Maintain Blend. Orange and grapefruit are of note for their high concentration of vitamin C and immune support.

Refresh Blend

The third blend contained in the Fruit capsules uses raspberry, pineapple, mango, sweet cherry, lemon, and aloe vera. Though it is unclear what health benefits this blend is supposed to offer, these whole-fruit ingredients are wonderful sources of vitamins and minerals.
Mangos, for instance, are filled with polyphenols, which act as antioxidants by protecting cells from damage.
Sweet cherries are another ingredient of note since they’ve been linked to healthy weight management and inflammation support.

Veggies Supplement

The Veggies capsules contain 15 different veggies. Like with the Fruit capsules, these ingredients are grouped into three blends that use the same names as those found in the Fruit formula: maintain, fend, and refresh. Here’s a closer look at the veggies included in each blend:

Maintain Blend

The largest blend in the veggie capsules contains broccoli, spinach, soybean, onion, green cabbage, wheatgrass, kale, cauliflower, celery, and zucchini. Based on the name, this blend is likely designed to target overall wellness.
Ingredients like broccoli, spinach, and kale are rich in nutrients, such as folate, antioxidants, and iron.
Soybeans are legumes that offer fiber, healthy fats, and vegan protein. This makes soybeans great for healthy weight management, since the inclusion of fiber and protein helps with feeling satiated. However, it is unclear whether the capsules contain enough soybeans to actually provide these health benefits. Those with soy sensitivity should avoid this product.
Additionally, onions may help with digestion and kidney function. These alliums are a source of potassium and vitamin B6 which allows for these potential benefits.

Fend Blend

Garlic, red cabbage, soybean, carrot, kale, red onion, cayenne pepper, shiitake mushroom, wheatgrass, and sweet potato are packed into the Fend Blend.
Like with the Fruit capsules, these ingredients may support immune function due to the inclusion of sweet potato, kale, and carrots, which offer vitamin C.
Cayenne pepper has been linked to potential immune support because of its high content of vitamins A, C, B6, and K.
Also, shiitake mushrooms are packed with lentinans, which are polysaccharides known for supporting a healthy immune system.

Refresh Blend

This blend includes carrot, kale, soybean, spinach, cauliflower, green onion, celery, and zucchini. These nutrient-dense veggies may offer support for overall wellness since they’re rich in nutrients.
Additionally, the Refresh Blend may help with hydration due to the inclusion of celery and zucchini, both of which are water-dense.
Many of the ingredients in this blend overlap with the Maintain and Fend Blend. Like with the Refresh Blend in the Fruit capsules, it is unclear what the exact purpose of this blend is other than supporting overall nutrition.

Fiber & Spice Supplement

Though Balance of Nature primarily focuses on their signature Fruit and Veggie Capsules, the Fibeer & Spice Supplement is designed to round out the business's proprietary "whole health system." Containing fiber-rich ingredients and 12 spices, these capsules are a totally unique formula that supposedly supports a healthy diet. Ingredients include:

Psyllium husk: This ingredient is a water-soluble fiber, meaning that it absorbs water as it moves through the body.
Flax seed: This superfood is known for being high in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps the body fight inflammation. Additionally, flax seeds promote digestive wellness due to the high fiber content.
Apple: Apples are high in fiber and also a natural source of vitamin K, which supports healthy bones, and quercetin, an antioxidant that supports cognition.
Monkfruit: Free of calories, carbs, and fat, monkfruit is known in the health community for supporting weight management since it provides sweetness without added calories.
Whole Spice Ingredients: This blend of 12 spices includes cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, fennel, cardamom, cumin, fenugreek, coriander, clove, allspice, mustard, and nutmeg. These spices may help reduce inflammation in the body as well as promote digestive health.

Balance of Nature Quality and Safety

Balance of Nature has been cited for its manufacturing policies, testing, and safety. In 2019, the FDA released statements saying that the brand was making unapproved health claims.

Additionally, the manufacturer of Balance of Nature’s products was cited for non-compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in 2023 and court ordered to stop manufacturing supplements immediately. This court order remained in place until they could demonstrate compliance with FDA regulations. It is important to know that the company resumed operations.

Although Balance of Nature claims that their products are third-party tested and non-GMO for quality assurance, these run-ins with the FDA regulations raise concerns regarding the continuity of the product’s ongoing quality and safety. In contrast, Live it Up is fully GMP-compliant and undergoes rigorous third-party testing.

Balance of Nature Cost Analysis

Balance of Nature offers two payment plans—subscription and one-time purchase. Here’s a closer look at the pricing for one-time purchases of the Fruit and Veggie capsules:

Overall cost: $89.95
Cost per serving: $3.00 per daily serving
Number of servings per order: 30
Shipping: Free
Returns: No returns for one-time purchases. Only available for subscribers.

With a subscription, here’s what you’ll pay for the company’s Fruit and Veggie capsules:

Overall cost: $69.95 per month, saving you $20.
One-time membership fee: $24.95
Cost per serving: $2.33 per daily serving
Shipping: Free
Returns: 30-day money-back guarantee for first orders

Compared to the cost per serving of Live it Up Super Greens ($1.66 for a one-time purchase and $1.33 with a subscription), the $3 price point of Balance of Nature makes this one of the more expensive formulas on the market. Balance of Nature is not the best choice if you’re looking for a dietary supplement that is sustainable for your wallet.

Balance of Nature Customer Reviews

For the most part, I discovered that customers are disenchanted with the Balance of Nature supplements. The biggest concerns I came across had to do with unappetizing pill size, lack of customer service, and ineffective formula. Many reviewers also said that they were dissatisfied enough to file reports with the Better Business Bureau.

When it came to the size of the supplement capsules, reviewers did not hold back. One reviewer said that the capsules were not worth the price since “the size of the pills are huge, think horse pill and you have to try and get 6 down each day. Heaven help you if one gets stuck halfway down.”

Another reviewer said, “I have another med the same size and have no problem. The capsule itself seems to be the problem. Read the hard-to-swallow reviews.”

Other reviewers reported no noticeable changes in their health since taking Balance of Nature, saying that they’re “not effective at all” or that they will “spend my money for something else.”

When it comes to the company’s customer service, multiple reviewers on TrustPilot described the company as providing “no customer service.” Others reported being ghosted by the company when they requested a refund or needed to cancel their subscription. Another complaint was that simply navigating the website was a headache.

How to Use Balance of Nature Dietary Supplements

Balance of Nature supplements can be chewed or swallowed–whichever you prefer! Users note that there is no aftertaste. However, a single serving calls for a whopping 6 capsules (3 veggie capsules and 3 fruit capsules).

What’s more, these pills are massive. If you don’t mind the size or quantity of capsules needed, then this supplement may not bother you. However, I found the 6 pills totally overwhelming when I tried the supplement myself.

According to the website, you can break open the capsules and add the contents to smoothies. Although this is a nice idea in theory, I found this method to be super messy and very inconvenient. Prying 6 capsules open every day seems harder than mixing up a glass of greens powder, which would probably have a better nutrient profile! The taste was also unsatisfactory, which was not surprising considering that these capsules are not flavored or sweetened.

While the Balance of Nature products may be good for you if you’re resistant to drinking green supplements, I still recommend Live it Up Super Greens over the Fruit and Veggie capsules.

Compared to Balance of Nature, Live it Up contains more than just veggies; the formula also contains digestive enzymes and probiotics to support a healthy gut. I also love that the product’s supplement fact panel provides a full breakdown of the vitamin and mineral quantities. This transparency makes me confident that I am actually getting the nutrients I need in every serving.

Finally, I can’t overstate the importance of choosing a supplement that is non-GMO, third-party tested, and consistently compliant with GMP guidelines. Supplements are widely unregulated, so ensuring that the product is certified by third-party guidelines and other industry standards is crucial. Otherwise, you run the risk of consuming a supplement that is ineffective or contains hidden ingredients. Live it Up only features high-quality ingredients and ensures that all products are third-party tested and produced in GMP-certified facilities.

Of course, I want to emphasize that everyone’s health concerns and goals are unique to them. While Live it Up Super Greens is my recommendation, I encourage you to do your research and try multiple supplements to find one that best fits your health needs, lifestyle, and budget. When in doubt, speak with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

FAQs

There is a lot to know when it comes to the world of dietary supplements, which means that it is only natural if you have lingering questions! This section will dig into some commonly asked questions about Balance of Nature.

Is Balance of Nature good for you?

Balance of Nature Fruit and Veggie capsules contain 31 whole fruits and veggies. If you struggle to regularly incorporate fruits and veggies into your daily diet, then this supplement may be good for you. However, the company does not disclose the exact amounts of each included ingredient nor the product’s nutrition breakdown. This makes it difficult to determine whether the capsules are actually effective.

Does Balance of Nature work?

It depends on your overall health, unique needs, and goals. If you’re simply trying to incorporate more whole foods into your diet, then Balance of Nature may work. However, there is no evidence that Balance of Nature has the nutritional profile to fill the vitamin and mineral gaps left in many modern diets. After reviewing verified customer reviews, many report no changes in their energy levels or overall health.

What product is better than Balance of Nature?

Live it Up Super Greens is better than Balance of Nature because of its impressive quality of ingredients and multiple certifications to ensure the product’s safety. Plus, Super Greens contains more than just organic vegetables; the formula also contains digestive enzymes and probiotics to support a healthy gut. One of the product’s biggest strengths is that the supplement facts panel is thorough, meaning that you get a detailed look at the exact vitamins and minerals you’re getting in a single serving.

What are the side effects of taking Balance of Nature?

Customers have reported upset stomachs, acid reflux, and other digestive problems due to the Balance of Nature capsules. Of course, these side effects are largely dependent on your unique health needs. Some people reported taking Balance of Nature with no noticeable side effects.

What was the Balance of Nature lawsuit?

Starting in 2013, the FDA issued warning letters to Balance of Nature, citing the company for making false and misleading health claims. Later, the California Attorney General sued Balance of Nature for making unjustified and misleading health claims. The company’s advertising claimed that the supplement helped “cure cancer” and other far-reaching benefits. In 2023, Balance of Nature settled with the California Attorney General’s office, paying $1.1 million in the agreement. The company was able to resume operations and sell the product on their website and Amazon.

References

About the author:

Rachel Gargano, MS, RD, CSSD, CBS

Rachel is a registered dietitian based in Contra Costa County, California, with over 15 years experience. She specializes in whole-body wellness and plant-based nutrition, helping people understand the dynamic interplay between food and health so they can live life to the fullest. When not helping others, she enjoys spending time with her kids, being physically active, and tending to her abundant household plants.

Learn more

Balance of Nature Review: Do These Capsules Really Work?

Balance of Nature Quick Facts

Is Balance of Nature Worth a Try?