Although many of us turn the other way every time we see vegetables heading in our direction, there are many reasons why this habit needs to change and some greens should become regular visitors to your dinner plate.
Green foods are packed with nutrients and are an extremely important part of our diet and the following are the reasons why exactly you need to take them seriously. So, the next time you have trouble deciding what to pack for lunch before heading out to work, think again about what your body needs.
They help maintain a healthy weight
Leafy green vegetables are packed with all kinds of different nutrients that assist your body to maintain a healthy metabolism. Being low on calories mean it is easier for your body to burn the excess fat. These greens are also loaded with fibre, keeping your digestive system healthy.
They defend against diabetes
Leafy greens are rich in dietary fibre and antioxidant compounds, along with vitamins C and E, as well as folate and potassium. All these nutrients are protective against diabetes. Green tea prevents an increase of sugar levels in the blood and having fermented papaya helps reduce the level of the reactive protein C and uric acid.
Improves immune system
Surprising how the most common vegetables are the healthiest. Green vegetables like broccoli offer high levels of vitamin C and vitamin K and folate—which are vital for boosting our immune system and strengthening our bones. Including this in your diet plays a significant role in regulating cell growth and reproduction.
Go green to fight cancer
Most leafy greens are packed with anti-cancer compounds like carotenoids—which help prevent and aid in the treatment of cancer. And add fish with that to your diet, which doctors claim to drastically reduce chances of diseases like prostate cancer.
Help you look younger
According to dietitians all over the world, going for green leafy vegetables can do wonders when it comes to concealing your age. Mainly because leafy greens are rich in vitamin E and C and work great as amazing antioxidants. Thus, protecting your precious skin from internal damage and help to maintain a flawless look. Imagine what you could do with all the money you will save from not having to go to your dermatologist.
Stronger bones and teeth
As I have already mentioned once before, green vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin K. Implying that the more you consume these the stronger your bones and teeth are going to be, especially by the age of thirty. It sure works after the magic age, but better start today!
Helps you stay hydrated
Living in a country such as ours, with long summers and pretty much non-existing winters—one is always advised to keep drinking a lot of fluids throughout the day. Green leafy vegetables are a great source of water and also requires less to digest, helping you keep your system hydrated.
Enhances sexual health
Considered taboo to talk about, but it is so important to take care of your sexual health for a better quality of life. Wouldn’t you agree? Well, most greens are very rich in vitamins and minerals. Low levels of zinc are often linked to poor sexual health, especially in men. Spinach, broccoli and kale are excellent sources of zinc.
Protect your heart
Many researchers have found that leafy green veggies contain lutein. Lutein is a carotenoid with anti-inflammatory properties. According to specialists, green vegetables with high levels of lutein can significantly help reduce inflammation in heart disease patients.
Watches over your eyes
As I already mentioned, how important lutein is in order to help protect your heart, well the benefits don’t end there. Leafy greens like kale contain carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which are very important for maintaining your eye health. This help reduces the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, which are often associated with older age.
