Leafy Greens: Health Benefits
Photo by Heather Barnes on Unsplash
One reason why dark leafy green vegetables are so beneficial to your health is because they contain high amounts of antioxidants, which help to fight the free radical damage that contributes to diseases and aging. Greens are also incredibly nutrient-dense, which means they are low in calories but high in beneficial nutrients.
These potent leaves can help protect the body from:
Heart disease
Neurodegenerative diseases
Diabetes
Certain types of cancer
Earlier mortality
Leafy greens are rich in many essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, including:
Vitamins A, C, E, & K
B vitamins
Folate
Iron
Magnesium
Potassium
Calcium
Fiber
Leafy greens can help to improve your health by:
Preventing cancer
Improving blood pressure and heart health
Improving digestion
Detoxing your liver
Protecting your eyes and vision
Helping you lose weight and/or maintain a healthy weight
For the most health benefits, look for variety! Eating different varieties of dark leafy greens is the best way to go. Examples include:
Kale: use raw in salads or cook into soups and sauces
Spinach: blend raw into smoothies or cook into dishes
Collard greens: use in place of tortillas for lettuce wraps
Cabbage: serve raw on tacos or fermented as sauerkraut
Beet greens: don't discard the greens! Sauté or add to salads or smoothies
Swiss Chard: try it cooked into casseroles or frittatas
Romaine: use in sandwiches, salads, or smoothies
Arugula: delicious as a peppery addition to salads or on top of pizza
Bok choy: sauté into a stir fry or soup