Why are green vegetables so good for us?

Why are green vegetables so good for us?

by Max Cuneo

We know our greens are good for us, but, it is very beneficial to have an understanding of why they are so amazing for us. That way, the next time we open the fridge and see that gleaming piece of pizza or choccy cake, we can make the right decision.

The low down‐ So what’s the deal with the greens you ask? Well to name a few things they are chocked full of antioxidants such as lutein (one of the carotenoids) which can help fight against eye disorders. They are also rich in fibre which will help your digestive system and also help you to feel full and control those cravings and stop your blood sugar levels from spiking (goodbye to that 3pm cupcake craving!). Additionally, greens have a high water content which will help keep you hydrated. Plus, they contain the full range of vitamins, foliate, iron and potassium. Certain Greens contain some of the highest levels of calcium you can get from a food source (hello kale!) They can also help repair the body’s tissues. Green vegetables are very low in calories so you can eat a many as you like! There are many more benefits to our beloved greens; we have simply scratched the surface!

We should aim to have 5 cups per day! This can be difficult, between work, children and all the other commitments in our busy modern day lives! That is why the green smoothie is great!. Throw everything in the blender whiz it up and presto, you have nearly had the recommended daily intake of vegetables. It is easy to pop it into a shaker bottle or smoothie jar and have it throughout your day. No matter where you are you will have a snack bursting with nourishment for your body, full of minerals vitamins and antioxidants, you will feel great for being healthy and you will feel amazing too.

Benefits of the great green smoothie‐

• They help you to feel full
• You will feel so great for being healthy and taking care of yourself
• Easy to take with you‐ wherever you are, whatever you are doing!
• It will help sustain your energy levels
• It will help stop you from dropping by that bakery (you know the one!)
• You are going to be nourishing your body with vitamins and all the other goodies during your day

Patient Experience‐ I was feeling tired, drained and exhausted. Although I eat well and exercise regularly I couldn’t shake these annoying feelings. Then I watched a great video called ‘hungry for change’ which inspired me to do a try a detox. I had never been a fan of them before, but I was willing to try anything! So I started the next day. I went out bought a truck load of green veggies and started juicing, To be honest‐ it didn’t look good, but it actually tasted great!

I also decided to cut caffeine too (which helped a huge deal!) After just three days I was feeling amazing‐ my energy was back and I felt vibrant and healthy! I actually couldn’t believe the difference I felt! Although everyone is different and we are all affected in different ways, if you’re feeling like I was‐ you should give it a go!

Tips

Try and incorporate more greens into your diet‐ what have you got to loose! (If you are going to try a detox it is always recommended to speak to your GP first) Below I have listed some green vegetables and a few benefits of each! I hope you will find some inspiration from this to start your own little health kick!

Kale‐ a‐ma‐zing! It is related to the broccoli family. It contains Fibre, high in iron (more than beef!) vitamins, folate, magnesium, vitamin a, c & k, contains powerful antioxidants, anti‐inflammatory, high in calcium and is super low calorie.

Parsley‐ Vitamin c, B 12, K & A, freshens breath; it can help to control blood pressure, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidants

Avocado‐ vitamin B6, folic acid, control blood pressure, anti‐inflammatory, promotes eye health, regulates blood sugar levels, (due to its healthy fat content) looks after your heart, freshens breath.

Corriander‐ helps lower cholesterol, aids in digestion, contains calcium, can help with blood pressure problems, natural anti‐septic, high iron content, promotes eye health, can ease menstrual pain and contains beta‐carotene.

Spinach‐ contains Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, E, K, folate, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, protein, zinc, copper, antioxidants and contains anti‐inflammatory properties.

Cucumber‐ Vitamin B, they are hydrating (made up of 95% water) freshens breath, contain some electrolytes, silica, potassium, magnesium and fibre.

Celery‐ can help reduce inflammation, contains minerals to aid in relaxation and sleep, good source of fibre. Imagine all of this green goodness squeezed into one easy to drink smoothie! See recipe to the right to have a try of making your own!

Still need more advice on why are green vegetables so good for us?  Call us now on 07 3398 7022 to book in with Max for a consultation.