Leafy Green Vegetables: How Food Affects Health

Leafy Green Vegetables have enhanced nutrition per calorie than any other food. Greens make up a compelling source vitamins A, C, E and K and well are numerous B vitamins.

These are prosperous sources of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. They are rich in fibre, remarkably low in fat and carbohydrates and provide an amazing source of protein.

As a general rule, you should aim to eat at least five servings of vegetables daily (that’s about 2 1/2 cups of cooked vegetables), and that includes leafy greens. As long as they’re prepared in a healthy way, leafy greens, like other non-starchy vegetables, are a great addition to your diet and offer countless health benefits. Leafy greens are full of vitamins, minerals, and disease-fighting phytochemicals. They are an important nutrient for weight loss and maintenance because it keeps you feeling full and helps control your hunger. Fibre can also lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and help to temper blood-sugar swings by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates into your bloodstream after meals. This lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Leafy greens also contain a lot of water, which helps keep you hydrated and contributes to beautiful skin and hair.

A list of common leafy greens

1. ArugulaIs a good source of potassium, a mineral involved in managing blood pressure and preventing osteoporosis.
2. Collard Greens A good source of Beta, Carotene, an antioxidant precursor to vitamin A that can help prevent and manage arthritis, cataracts, and also muscular degeneration.
3. Kale, Kale is a high-quality carb and very low in calories, kale can help manage type 2 diabetes and is a terrific addition to any weight loss plan.
4. Lettuce, Low in calories, some types of lettuce such as romaine, green leaf, red leaf, bib and butter head are good sources of antioxidants, including beta-carotene, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and quercetin which help prevent arthritis, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
5. Mustard Greens, Are a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin C, mustard greens also contain folate, a B vitamin that may help reduce the risk of heart disease, enhance memory, and improve moods, as well as Vitamin K which may prevent bone fractures.
6. Spinach, High in fibre and very low in calories, can help with type 2 diabetes, packed with nutrients. It’s also a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin C Lutein, Zeaxanthin, helping to maintain healthy eyes, hair and skin. Spinach contains very high amounts of Potassium and vitamin K. Spinach also includes iron and B vitamins which will help maintain strong, healthy hair and a healthy circulatory system.