Most of us would have heard numerous times in our lives of the importance of having a balanced diet. A balanced diet helps to get all the nutrients our bodies need to function and more. One important component that should not be forgotten is leafy greens, as they have more impact than they seem. For starters, leafy greens can range from broccoli, lettuce, kale, and even microgreens like turnip greens. Here are some benefits of leafy greens to convince you to consume more.
They Help with Cognition
Some studies have shown that regular consumption of leafy greens helps with retaining memory and slows the rate of cognitive decline in mature people. People who consume more leafy greens have cognitive skills that are at least 11 years younger than that of those who don’t. It’s a wonder how leafy greens can have such a big impact on memory and other cognitive functions, so why not add some to your diet?
Leafy Green Are Filled with Nutrients
As with many vegetables, leafy greens are notorious for being packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, potassium, and iron. This is especially so for darker-leaved greens. The composition of nutrients differs for every leafy green that you consume. Kale has more vitamin A while collard greens are higher in calcium. Nutrients are important in ensuring your body is functioning the way it should be and helps with the prevention of diseases.
They Are Lower in Calories and High in Antioxidants
For the health-conscious, leafy greens are a great option as they are low in calories while being high in antioxidants! Leafy greens mostly consist of nutrients, water, and fiber. Being low in calories, it’s a perfect ingredient to get all the nutrients and antioxidants you need! You can use them in smoothies, salads, the list is endless!
Keeps Your Bowel Schedule Normal
With the amount of fiber found in leafy greens, the huge plus comes in the form of frequent toilet trips, keeping your digestive tract healthy! Fiber helps to ensure that food travels smoothly through the intestines and it has so many other advantages that eventually lead you to have a longer life.
Helps to Reduce Stress
A good number of leafy greens contain a nutrient called folate, and this helps with improving moods and influences your neurotransmitters levels. Eating healthy also helps to reduce energy spikes and crashes and improve the immune system. These factors help to alleviate the sense of stress and improve your overall health.
Helps to Balance Blood Sugars
Eating sufficient leafy greens help to maintain your blood sugar levels and have a more consistent energy level. This stability is important especially for some medical conditions such as diabetes as having a blood sugar that is too high or low can be life or death to a diabetic. By eating leafy greens, diabetics can manage their blood sugar levels better.
Eating Well at Aston Gardens
At Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh, we take food seriously. In a stylish dining room, you will be served delicious and healthy meals that are prepared by chefs and served to you by our friendly staff. Contact us to find out more.
