If you asked me what is the one thing that everyone could do to improve their health dramatically… it would be to eat more greens. The reason why? They’re incredibly nutrient dense, providing your body with a wide range of vitamins and minerals to support your health.
Whilst it may feel difficult to achieve the recommended 5-6 servings of greens and veggies per day, there are some simple ways you can sneak more into your diet to enjoy their benefits.
9 Benefits of Greens for your Body
- Green vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are vital for various bodily functions.
- Green leafy vegetables are the best dietary source of vitamin K (as phylloquinone) in the world.
- They are an excellent source of dietary fibre, which are essential for digestive health, regulation of blood sugar, as well as giving us that feeling of fullness.
- Green vegetables are abundant in antioxidants, ones like beta carotene and lutein which can help protect cells from stress and reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.
- All green vegetables contain high levels of magnesium, potassium and fibre which help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and support cardiovascular function.
- Vegetables like kale and broccoli are high in calcium and Vitamin K which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
- The benefits for skin and eye health are phenomenal and credited with improving skin hydration and elasticity.
- Leafy greens are a great source of lutein, especially my favourite kale. Lutein is a super antioxidant that increases our natural SPF from UV damage.
- A study published in Neurology 2018 found a slower cognitive decline in people who consumed leafy green vegetables regularly.
How to Incorporate more Greens into your Diet
Have a green smoothie or smoothie bowl; the simple hack of adding a handful of baby spinach to your smoothie won’t affect the taste but will increase the nutrients.
Have a salad with your lunch or dinner; this small act will increase your vegetable consumption considerably.
Use large lettuce or womb cabbage leaves as a wrap instead of tortillas; also lower in carbs and less likely to cause a blood sugar spike.
Add greens to your soups and casseroles; a great way to sneak veggies into meals, and add extra fibre too.
Grab some Australian Greens or Naked Greens; the easiest way to add organic, Australian-grown greens to your diet.
