Introduction
In the world of greens powders, Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus is the “elephant in the room.” It is infamous for two things: a taste that many describe as “swamp water,” and a cult-like following that claims it heals conditions other supplements can’t touch. Unlike modern “lifestyle” greens designed to taste like berry juice, this formula was originally created for Dr. Richard Schulze’s “Incurables Program”—a clinical protocol for patients with severe, chronic health challenges.[1]
For those suffering from chronic low energy, anemia, or digestive malabsorption, the question isn’t about flavor; it’s about efficacy. Is this product a legitimate therapeutic tool for restoring cellular energy, or is it an overpriced herbal blend hiding behind a “clinical” label? Furthermore, savvy consumers are often alarmed by the “Prop 65” warnings on the bottle mentioning lead and cadmium.
This review cuts through the marketing noise. We will analyze the clinical ingredients, provide a radical transparency report on the heavy metal warnings based on geological data,[2] and determine if the therapeutic potency of Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus is worth the difficult taste.
Product Overview: The ‘Incurables’ Standard
Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus is not a multivitamin in the traditional sense; it is a concentrated nutritional powerhouse designed for assimilation. While competitors like Athletic Greens (AG1) focus on palatability and broad-spectrum “wellness,” Dr. Schulze’s formula prioritizes clinical potency.
The product traces its origins to Dr. Schulze’s own health crisis and his subsequent clinical practice. It was formulated to provide “high-octane” nutrition to patients whose digestion was too compromised to absorb nutrients from food or synthetic vitamin pills.[1] The core philosophy here is “Wild-Harvesting”—using ingredients grown in their natural environment rather than on standard organic farms, which Dr. Schulze argues produces a denser nutrient profile.
Technical Specifications & Key Features
- Form: Powder (loose) or Vegan Tablets.
- Serving Size: 2 Tablespoons (Powder) or 15 Tablets.
- Primary Base: Wild-Harvested Spirulina, Blue-Green Algae, and Chlorella.
- Vitamin Source: 100% Whole Food (No synthetic isolates).
- Certifications: Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Wild-Harvested ingredients.[1]
- Flavor Profile: Intense herbal/grassy (No added sweeteners or flavorings).
Ingredient Analysis: Bioavailability vs. Synthetics
The defining characteristic of Superfood Plus is its refusal to use synthetic vitamins. Most multivitamins use isolated chemicals (e.g., ascorbic acid for Vitamin C). Dr. Schulze’s formula relies entirely on whole foods, which research suggests may offer superior bioavailability due to the “synergy” of co-factors present in the plant matrix.
The Yeast & Algae Powerhouse
A standout ingredient is Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Non-Fermentable Nutritional Yeast). While some consumers fear “yeast” due to candida concerns, this specific strain is inactive and non-fermentable. It is included specifically as a bioavailable source of B-vitamins and protein.[1] Scientific literature supports the use of yeast protein as an easily accessible food source that is rich in essential amino acids and B-complex vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism.[4]
The Vitamin B12 & Iron Connection
For those battling low energy levels, the specific nutrient density here is critical.
- Vitamin B6: A standard serving delivers approximately 6mg of Vitamin B6 (300% of Daily Value), derived principally from the yeast and plant sources.[1]
- Vitamin E: Unlike the soy-derived Vitamin E found in many cheap supplements, Superfood Plus sources its Vitamin E from Palm Fruit, providing roughly 140% of the daily requirement.[1]
- Iron: The high concentration of spirulina and blue-green algae provides a plant-based iron source that is easier on the digestive tract than synthetic iron salts, addressing a common root cause of fatigue: anemia.
Safety Report: Addressing Prop 65 & Side Effects
This is the most critical section for the safety-conscious buyer. If you look at the label, you may see a California Proposition 65 warning regarding lead and cadmium. Does this mean the product is contaminated?
The Truth About Heavy Metals and Soil
According to the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), heavy metals like lead and cadmium are widespread in the earth’s crust and naturally accumulate in soil and water. Plants with deep root systems—especially wild-harvested ones—absorb these minerals along with nutrients.[2]
Prop 65 sets warning thresholds significantly lower than federal safety standards. A warning label often indicates that the plant absorbed naturally occurring minerals from the soil, not that the product was contaminated by industrial waste. For a product like Superfood Plus, which is essentially concentrated dried plants, these “background” levels can trigger a warning even when the product is organic and safe by federal standards.[2]
Detox Symptoms: The Herxheimer Reaction
New users often report side effects like nausea, headaches, or loose bowels in the first few days. In the context of high-potency nutrition, this is often referred to as the Herxheimer reaction or “healing crisis.”
When the body is suddenly flooded with high-density nutrition (especially chlorophyll from algae), it can stimulate rapid detoxification. This is not necessarily an allergic reaction but a sign of the product’s potency.
- Recommendation: Do not start with the full 2-tablespoon dose. See the “Buying Guide” below for a titration protocol.
Performance: Energy, Immunity, and ‘The Taste’
Does it actually work? Verified user consensus and the formulation suggest that for energy restoration, it is highly effective.
Cellular Energy vs. Stimulation
Unlike caffeine, which blocks adenosine receptors to “hide” fatigue, the B-vitamins and iron in Superfood Plus fuel the Krebs cycle—the process by which cells generate energy (ATP). Users typically report a “sustained vitality” rather than a jittery spike.[3]
Immune Support (Not Boosting)
While marketing often promises to “boost” the immune system, medical authorities like Harvard Health clarify that “boosting” immunity (increasing the number of immune cells) is not necessarily desirable and can even be harmful (e.g., autoimmune reactions).[5] Instead, Superfood Plus provides the raw materials—vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc—required to support and modulate immune function, allowing the body to mount a defense when necessary without artificial over-stimulation.
The Taste Trade-Off: Proof of Purity?
There is no sugarcoating it: Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus tastes intense. Users on Amazon frequently describe it as “grassy,” “earthy,” or resembling “pond water.”[3]
- The Positive Spin: The flavor is proof of purity. There are no toxic sweeteners, masking agents, or artificial berry flavors. For the target audience—people who are sick and tired of being sick—the bad taste is often viewed as a badge of honor and a trade-off for clinical potency.
Pros, Cons, and Rating Summary
Based on ingredient analysis and aggregated user sentiment:[3]
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clinical Potency: High doses of B-Vitamins (B6, B12) from whole food sources. | Difficult Taste: Intense, grassy flavor that is hard to mask. |
| Bioavailability: Uses yeast and algae for superior absorption over synthetics. | Price: Premium pricing compared to standard multivitamins. |
| Purity: Wild-harvested, zero fillers, zero sugar. | Prop 65 Warning: Can cause anxiety for users unfamiliar with soil science. |
| Energy: Effective for sustained, non-stimulant energy restoration. | Detox Symptoms: Potential for nausea if not titrated correctly. |
Competitor Comparison: Dr. Schulze vs. The Market
| Feature | Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus | Athletic Greens (AG1) | Garden of Life Raw Organic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Clinical Therapy / “Incurables” | Lifestyle / Convenience | General Organic Wellness |
| Taste | Intense / Herbal | Palatable / Sweetened | Mild / Vanilla or Chocolate |
| Vitamin Source | 100% Wild-Harvested/Whole Food | Whole Food + Synthetics | Whole Food |
| Proprietary Blends | Yes (but transparent on key nutrients) | Yes (heavy use of blends) | Mostly Transparent |
| Best For | Chronic Fatigue, Anemia, Bio-hackers | Daily Maintenance, Taste-sensitive | Budget-conscious Organic shoppers |
Verdict: Choose AG1 if you want a tasty daily drink. Choose Dr. Schulze if you have a specific health deficit and need therapeutic intervention regardless of taste.
Buying Guide: Who Should Use This?
Ideal User Persona
- The “Incurable”: Someone dealing with chronic fatigue, anemia, or recovery from illness who hasn’t seen results with standard vitamins.
- The Bio-Hacker: Someone who prioritizes nutrient density and wild-harvesting over flavor.
- The Purist: Someone who demands zero fillers and is willing to drink “swamp water” for health.
Who Should Avoid It?
- The Taste-Sensitive: If you can’t handle strong herbal flavors, you will struggle to be consistent with this product.
- The “One-A-Day” Shopper: If you want a cheap, simple pill, this protocol is too involved and expensive.
Titration Protocol (How to Take It)
To avoid nausea and detox symptoms:
- Days 1-3: Start with 1/2 teaspoon mixed into a smoothie with strong fruits (banana, pineapple).
- Days 4-7: Increase to 1 teaspoon.
- Week 2: Work up to the full 2 tablespoons.
Tip: The “Superfood Blast” recipe (citrus juice + superfood) is the classic way to mask the flavor.
Pricing & Value Analysis
At roughly $1.50 – $2.00 per serving (depending on bundle pricing), Superfood Plus is expensive compared to a Centrum pill but comparable to a latte. However, the value proposition is “Whole Food Insurance.”
- Cost Efficiency: It effectively replaces a B-Complex, an Iron supplement, a Vitamin E supplement, and a spirulina powder. When purchased separately, high-quality versions of these would exceed the cost of Superfood Plus.[1]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I take Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus while pregnant?
A: Many women use it for its high folate and iron content. However, due to the potent detoxifying herbs, you must consult your obstetrician or midwife before use. The label typically advises consulting a professional.
Q: Will this help with weight loss?
A: Indirectly, yes. By saturating the body with nutrients, it can reduce “hidden hunger”—cravings caused by nutrient deficiency. However, it is not a thermogenic fat burner.
Q: Does Dr. Schulze’s Superfood contain lead?
A: As detailed in the Safety section, it contains naturally occurring trace minerals absorbed from the soil. The Prop 65 warning reflects California’s stringent reporting laws, not industrial contamination.[2]
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Clinical Superfood?
Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus is not for everyone. It is a serious tool for serious health issues. If you are looking for a delicious morning beverage, look elsewhere. But if you are willing to tolerate a difficult taste in exchange for unmatched clinical potency and wild-harvested purity, this is the gold standard.
For those suffering from nutrient deficiency or low energy levels, it offers a bioavailable solution that synthetic vitamins simply cannot match. It remains the “Incurables Standard” for a reason.
Click here to view Dr. Schulze’s Superfood Plus (Official Listing)
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting high-potency supplements, especially if pregnant or on medication.
References
- Dr. Schulze’s American Botanical Pharmacy. (n.d.). SuperFood Plus Official Product Page. https://www.herbdoc.com/superfood-plus
- American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). (n.d.). California Prop 65 FAQ. https://www.ahpa.org/california_prop_65_faq
- Amazon.com. (n.d.). Customer Reviews: Dr. Schulze’s SuperFood Plus. https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Schulzes-Superfood-Plus-Natural/dp/B000SHOBQE
- Jach, M. E., et al. (2022). Yeast Protein as an Easily Accessible Food Source. National Institutes of Health (NIH). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8780597/
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). How to boost your immune system. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system