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Many people know that eating your leafy green vegetables are important to a balanced diet. The more you eat the better your health is but WHY are they so important?
Green vegetables are one of the cornerstones of any healthy diet because they contain so many nutrients that benefit your body in a multitude of ways. They are the perfect food to keep you full because greens are so high in fiber, which is great for weight loss.
There is no rule on how many green vegetables you can eat in one day. It is normally recommended that the average person consumes five servings of vegetables per day, but greens are so packed with vitamins and minerals that there is no limit on how much one can eat.
Nutrients in Green Leafy Vegetables
Leafy greens, especially kale and collards, are loaded with calcium. The calcium you get from consuming greens leads to stronger bones, healthier muscle function and better overall blood pressure.
Vitamins E and C, found in many green vegetables, support healthy, glowing skin and protect it from sun damage as you age. These nutrients will also decrease risk of cataracts or macular degeneration.
Another essential vitamin prominent in leafy greens is vitamin K. It prevents multiple age-related conditions, as well as cardiovascular disease and kidney calcification. The good news is that in just one cup of most green vegetables, there is at least your recommended daily value in vitamin K.
Incorporating at least five servings of green vegetables, especially leafy greens, into your diet every day, will support optimal health and vitality. The age prevention qualities and benefits to your overall health are truly significant and will make a marked impact on the aging process.
Either cooked or raw, green vegetables can liven any dish with their bright green color, their soft, sometimes earthy taste and texture but delicious and nutritious. Expand your horizons and try new leafy greens whenever possible…your body will thank you!
Challenge yourself daily by adding any of the green leafy vegetables listed below. If you already eat them every day, then increase the number of times you eat them each day.
- Arugula
- Beet Greens
- Bok Choy
- Cabbage
- Collard Greens
- Endive
- Kale
- Microgreens
- Romaine Lettuce
- Spinach
- Swiss Chard
- Turnip Greens
- Watercress
Which green leafy vegetables are your favorite?
