Greens are some of the healthiest foods we can eat. Green fruits and vegetables are rich in lutein, isothiocyanates, isoflavones, and vitamin K— which is essential for blood and bone health.
Green vegetables are also rich in FOLATE— a nutrient especially important for pregnant women to consume to help prevent congenital disabilities.
Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and cabbage, have been shown to enhance immune function, while dark leafy greens like kale may improve mood.
Research has even shown that eating leafy greens is associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline. One study among 960 participants aged 58–99 years old found that those who consumed at least 1.3 servings per day of leafy greens for nearly five years experienced cognitive improvement likened to being 11 years younger in age, compared to those who consumed fewer greens.
Greens are also a highly bioavailable source of calcium and vitamin K1, which have a positive impact on bone metabolism.
And kiwi fruit has been shown to help alleviate a wide array of maladies, from the common cold to IBS and insomnia, and it may even help repair DNA Damage.
Examples of Healthy Green Foods to Try
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Romaine lettuce
- Collard Greens
- Brussel Sprouts
- Green grapes
- Asparagus
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Arugula
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Zucchini
- Kiwi fruit
- Avocado
- Green apples
- Edamame
