Nowadays, a healthy lifestyle is not so easily achievable. We live faster and work harder, not having enough time for ourselves and our own well-being. However, you should remember that you are what you eat and that your health depends mainly on the food you are consuming. Here is a list of ten greens that should definitely find their way to your table. Not only that these are tasteful and healthy, but they are also very low in fat and calories. Check them out.
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Asparagus
This vegetable is a magnificent source of vitamins B, C and K, as well as folic acid and phosphorus. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients which prevent various heart diseases and type 2 diabetes. Its dietary fibers successfully treat irritable bowel syndrome. Asparagus also acts as risk reducer for certain types of cancer, which is why you should incorporate this veggie into your everyday meals. Not to mention, it tastes great!
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Broccoli
This extraordinary veg is loaded with vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps your body fight against viruses which cause flu. It also reduces the risk of rectal and stomach cancers. Being rich in fiber, broccoli also regulates and supports your digestive system. Its anti-inflammatory substances are crucial in the prevention of various heart diseases, which makes this vegetable a desirable ingredient in every kitchen.
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Kale
Its curly leaves are packed with vitamin C and bone-building vitamin K. Substances found in kale make it beneficial in the prevention of breast, ovarian and colon cancers. When cooked by steaming, it lowers your “bad” cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart diseases. However, if you do not like its intense smell, use baby kale instead. It is equally nutritious.
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Cabbage
Being a great source of vitamin K, cabbage is your ally in the prevention of osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from that, antioxidants found in it successfully fight breast, colon and prostate cancers. This vegetable, too, lowers the level of “bad” cholesterol in blood. It also contains a significant amount of iron. There are several types of this veggie, such as bok choy and Napa cabbage – and you will benefit no matter which one you choose. All of them are extremely nutritious and healthy.
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Brussels Sprouts
As well as broccoli, brussels sprouts are also packed with fiber, which makes your digestive system work normally. They are also beneficial in the field of DNA protection, because they improve the stability of DNA cells inside of your white blood cells. Their anti-inflammatory nature prevents heart attack and atherosclerosis, which is why you should definitely start consuming these little fellas as soon as possible.
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Cucumber
Its crispy, moisture rich flesh is truly refreshing in hot summer days. This veggie does not contain saturated fats or cholesterol. However, its skin contains a fiber that reduces constipation. Cucumber is a great source of potassium, which is an electrolyte that reduces heart rate and blood pressure. Vitamin K is also present in this vegetable, and it strengthens your bones, thus preventing osteoporosis.
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Turnip Greens
Turnips are root vegetables packed with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. However, turnip greens are far more nutritious than the root itself, when it comes to vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. Besides vitamins A, C and K, these are rich in iron, calcium and phosphorus, and this combination certainly offers you protection from osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases.
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Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is full of proteins and dietary fibers which improve the functioning of your digestive system. Minerals such as copper, potassium and iron can be found in its stem, and they are particularly beneficial for your blood pressure and heart rate. Kohlrabi leaves, as well as turnip greens, are abundant in minerals and vitamins A, B and K.
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Lettuce
This leafy vegetable is an incredible source of nutrients which are beneficial to your health. Besides vitamins C and K, lettuce is also very rich in beta-carotene which converts into vitamin A in your organism. This vitamin is crucial for vision and healthy skin. Regular consumption of lettuce prevents Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular diseases.
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Spinach
Its crispy green leaves are major sources of nutrients and antioxidants which will improve your health. Spinach is known as a vegetable which is the richest in iron – 100 grams of fresh spinach contain up to 25% of daily recommendation of it, which is extremely important for the production of red blood cells in your organism. Besides iron, it is loaded with vitamin C, as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
Now that you have read everything about these vegetables, we are sure that you will start using at least some of them on a daily basis. After all, that is the only body you have got, and you should treat it with respect. Eating healthy is the right way to do that.