There are 2 kinds of people. The ones who add greens to everything they eat, be it a smoothie or pasta. The others who carefully pick out any greens they see in their food and push it toward the opposite side of the plate so that they don’t eat it even by accident. If you belong to the second type, here are facts about some greens that will convince you to include it in your diet. If you belong to the first type, this list will give you reasons to continue to champion your cause.
1. Spinach
Popeye had superhuman strengths for a reason. Containing vitamins A, C, and folate, as well as minerals such as manganese, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iron, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. It also contains some amounts of antioxidants, protein, and fiber.1 Here are some benefits of Vitamin A.2
- Improves vision and eye health.
- Reduces the risk of eye disorders like cataracts.
- Boosts immunity.
- Strengthens bones.
- Enhances skin health.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease.
2. Kale
Fondly referred to as a superfood, kale is packed with several nutrients. It contains vitamins A, C, E, K as well
as calcium, magnesium, B6, potassium, iron, and omega 3 fatty acids. Here are some benefits of eating kale.3
- Fights inflammation.
- Prevents cancer.
- Promotes bone health.
- Reduces cholesterol levels.
3. Wheatgrass
While the primary part of wheatgrass is green chlorophyll, it also has healthy amounts of vitamins (A, C, and E) and minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium. It’s also gluten-free, unlike wheat. The benefits of wheatgrass are as follows.4 5
- Aids digestion.
- Delays aging.
- Improves oral hygiene and health.
- Detoxifies blood.
4. Chlorella
Over 50% of chlorella is made up of protein. The other constituents of this green algae are vitamins (B12 and C) and minerals like magnesium, zinc, copper, potassium, calcium, and folic acid. Chlorella is also rich in iron, omega 3s, fiber, and certain antioxidants. Below are some benefits of chlorella.6 7
- Boosts immunity
- Reduces high blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
- Regulates hypertension.
- Treats fibromyalgia.
- Treats lung diseases.
- Stops the progression of cancer.
5. Spirulina
A close cousin of chlorella, this blue-green alga is popularly used as a food supplement. Spirulina is packed with nutrients like B complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and gamma linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid). Some benefits of spirulina are given below.8 9
- Boosts immunity.
- Aids weight loss.
- Treats allergies and viral infections.
- Reduces high cholesterol levels.
- Prevents liver damage and cirrhosis.
- Prevents cancer.
6. Broccoli
Belonging to the cabbage family, broccoli is one of the most-loved green vegetables. Rich in vitamin A and E, broccoli also contains high amounts of dietary fiber, protein, iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. Here’s why you need to include broccoli in your diet.10 11
- Fights inflammation.
- Repairs damaged body tissues.
- Promotes bone and skin health.
- Improves gut health.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease.
- Reduces the risk of cancer.
7. Parsley
Widely cultivated as herb, a spice, and a vegetable, parsley has several health benefits. It’s a good source of not only vitamins (A, C, and K) but also minerals like potassium, phosphorous, folate, and iron. Below are some benefits of chlorella.12 13
- Reduces cancer progression.
- Fights inflammation.
- Delays aging.
- Improves oral hygiene.
You can toss these greens into your salad or spinkle them on your favorite dish. You could also choose to add them to your smoothie to pack in a healthy punch. However, if you’re on medication, consult your doctor before using these green vegetables and herbs regularly, as they could interact with your prescription drugs.
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