Dark green leafy vegetables (DGLVs) are an excellent source of nutrients including folate, zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamin C and fiber.
Part of what makes DGLVs so super is their potential to reduce your risk of chronic illnesses including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
They also contain high levels of anti-inflammatory compounds known as carotenoids, which may protect against certain types of cancer.
Some well-known DGLVs include:
- Kale – the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet
- Swiss chard – highly nutritious, just one cup provides over three times the recommended daily allowance of vitamin K
- Collard greens – contain nutrients that can play an important role in a healthful diet
- Turnip greens – 96 percent of the plant’s carotene (vitamin A) and about 84 percent of the B vitamins being stored inside the leaf blades
- Spinach – important for skin, hair, and bone health, they also provide protein, iron, vitamins, and minerals (Learn how to plant and grow spinach plantingathome.com)
Some DGLVs have a bitter taste and not everyone enjoys them plain. You can get creative by including them in your favorite soups, salads, smoothies, stir-fries and curries.
Dark green leafy vegetables are full of fiber and nutrients which may be instrumental in preventing certain chronic diseases.
Website: www.healthline.com
