We all know we should ‘eat our greens’, and there’s specific science-backed reasons behind this advice. The Healthy Food Guide team discovers the many health benefits of eating leafy greens.
Find out exactly why greens are good for you! Broccoli, kale and spinach are packed with nutrients and help protect us against memory loss as well as breast and prostate cancers.
Eyesight guardians
Many of the antioxidants typically found in leafy greens – vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin – help to slow the progression of eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. In one study, women who ate more than one serving of kale (or collard greens) a week were 57 per cent less likely to have glaucoma than those who ate them no more than once a month.
Memory prolongers
One study of adults with an average age of 81 found those who ate one to two daily servings of green leafy vegetables had the cognitive function of a person 11 years younger, compared with those who avoided them. This was probably due to the folate, beta-carotene, and vitamin K that leafy greens contain.
Heart protectors
Leafy greens contribute to a healthy heart in a number of ways. They contain potassium, which lowers high blood pressure; fibre, which keeps cholesterol in check; and folate, which protects against heart disease and stroke. Their extensive range of antioxidants can also protect against free-radical damage, a key contributor to atherosclerosis.
Cancer busters
Studies confirm that higher intakes of cruciferous vegetables are linked to a lower risk of many cancers, including those of the bladder, breast, bowel, stomach, lungs, ovaries, pancreas, prostate and kidneys. These green vegetables are rich in unique compounds called glucosinolates, which break down to form cancer-busting compounds, and they are packed with cancer-fighting flavonoids and carotenoids.
Help your whole body
Cruciferous vegetables or brassicas (such as broccoli or brussels sprouts) and kale and leaves (such as spinach, swiss chard and lettuce) are brimming with health-protecting nutrients.
Lung health – Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamin C, which helps keep lungs healthy throughout life.
Nerve health – Baby spinach is rich in folate for healthy nerves.
Eye health – Mature spinach is particularly high in eye-friendly lutein and zeaxanthin.
Bone health – Kale is rich in vitamin K, needed for bone strength and helping to protect against osteoporosis.
Immune health – Broccoli is one of the best vegetable providers of vitamin E, which supports cells fighting germs.
Skin health – Chard is rich in beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A – a vital nutrient for healthy skin.
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