When you think of healthy foods, vegetables are often top of the list. But not all vegetables are created equally and most people aren’t eating enough leafy greens. These vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber and can offer numerous health benefits. Here are some leafy greens to eat every day.
Kale
Kale is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Vitamins K, A, and C are highly prevalent in kale and it contains lutein and beta-carotene which can reduce the risk of diseases. It is best consumed raw, as cooking it can reduce the nutrient value, so add it to your lunchtime salad and enjoy the benefits.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a loose leaf green, with a slightly bitter taste, so they’re best served cooked with some flavor. They are a great source of calcium and vitamins A, B9 (folate), and C and one of the best sources of vitamin K, which can reduce blood clotting.
Spinach
Spinach is a common leafy green used in salads, frittatas, on top of pizza, and for smoothies. One cup of raw spinach provides you with 181% of your daily value of vitamin K. It’s also packed with folate which helps with red blood cell production and is needed for women when they are pregnant.
Arugula
This leafy green, otherwise known as rocket, has a slightly peppery taste and is often used in salads or added as a garnish on top of a sandwich. It is one of the best sources of dietary nitrates, which helps to increase blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
