Dark leafy greens are a group of vegetables including kale, collard greens, spinach, cabbage, romaine lettuce, and arugula to name a few. Dark leafy greens are very beneficial and can provide several much-needed nutrients to your diet.
Vitamin K
Known for having a large amount of Vitamin K, dark leafy greens help aid the body in the blood coagulation process. Vitamin K also helps bind calcium to the bones. If you are ever lacking in Vitamin K, dark leafy greens are a go-to.
Folate
Dark leafy greens feed your body folate. Folate is important for the prevention of diseases like cardiovascular disease and digestive disorders and diabetes. It is also essential for the prevention of birth defects in pregnant women. Folate is also responsible for the body's process of making white and red blood cells and converting carbohydrates into energy.
Flavonoids
Spinach and kale are packed with flavonoids, a phytonutrient that boosts heart health and may even help ward off cancer.
Brain health
According to the Alzheimer's Association, flavonoid-rich foods may also reduce inflammation in the brain, possibly slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Eat a spinach salad a few days a week for a powerful punch of flavonoids. Other good sources are kale, soybeans, berries, tea, or even a glass of wine.
Add dark leafy greens to your diet
Dark leafy greens can be a great addition to salads or soups. Add spinach or kale to a soup or salad and easily consume many essential vitamins. Make a smoothie and add kale or spinach for those body-boosting greens. Make dinner with a side of spinach or cabbage and feel good knowing you are feeding your body what it needs!
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