We dreaded it as kids, didn’t we?
The all too terrible thought of eating something green – Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli – why couldn’t chicken nuggets be the health food everyone was raving over?
Well, it turns out your parents may have been on to something when they told you to eat your greens.
As more and more research is done on the power of plant foods there becomes even more debate over what is truly healthy, yet one thing remains fairly certain – and that’s the amazing benefits of eating an abundance of those beautiful dark green vegetables!
Not convinced? Here’s 4 reasons to never leave greens out of your diet…
- Vitamin Content
When it comes to a food that bursting with nutrition – look no further then your greens, especially dark leafy salad greens! Full of of Vitamins A, C, E, K and the B vitamin folate, these greens pack a punch when it comes to nutrient content.
- Antioxidant Content
We all want to live long, healthy lives. Recent studies demonstrate the potent effect that the antioxidants found in greens can have on disease prevention. These antioxidants have been shown to prevent certain types of cancer and even heart disease!
- Facilitate Weight Loss
As mentioned earlier, green vegetables are bursting with nutrients. Take a look at what they have to offer…Greens are low-glycemic index, low-calorie, and low-carbohydrate, making them a great food to facilitate weight loss, manage blood sugar, or maintain a healthy body weight while promoting overall wellness!
- Great Source of Fiber!
According the USDA, most Americans are not consuming enough dietary fiber. Regular consumption of greens is a great way to increase your fiber intake, thereby improving gastrointestinal and digestive health!
Green vegetables are an incredibly important part of healthy diet to promote wellness, manage weight, and obtain essential nutrients. Among all the benefits of greens, let’s not forgot how delicious of an addition they can be to any meal. Challenge yourself to consciously consume greens with your meals and see for yourself the amazing benefits they have to offer!
By Gina Campanella,Intern, Lehman College,Cuny