Green leafy vegetables are good sources of many vitamins (such as vitamins A, C, and K) and minerals (such as iron and calcium). These nutrients are necessary for maintaining many different processes in your body, including reducing levels of bad cholesterol, improving your vision, helping to manage your weight and boosting your immunity. Additionally, they are an excellent source of fiber and water, which keep your digestive system in check. Your body needs a little dietary fat to absorb some of the vitamins found in green leafy vegetables. Eating one-half cup of green leafy vegetables each day to prevent nutrient deficiencies and serious illnesses. There are many varieties of edible green leaves, and they are most nutritious when eaten raw or lightly steamed. Below is a list of the best green vegetables:
Spinach
Spinach is a sweet leafy green vegetable; it is rich in vitamins A, C and K. It is also a good source of folate and iron. The consumption of spinach has been associated with prevention of cancer and asthma, lowering of blood pressure, promoting healthy looking skin & hair and the management of diabetes.
Broccoli
Broccoli is closely related to the dark green leafy veggies. Broccoli has both soft florets and crunchy stalks, and is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, and fiber. 1 cup of chopped up broccoli contains 3 g of protein, 2.4 g of dietary fiber, 135% of your RDA of vitamin C and 14% of your RDA of folate. It assists with your digestive, eye & heart health, fights cancer & aging and prevents many chronic diseases.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a nutrient-rich lettuce that is high in vitamins A, C, and K, and folate. It is mainly made up of water but does contain significant amounts of potassium, vitamin A and Omega-3 fatty acids. It’s best when eaten raw in salads or sandwiches.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a very low-calorie & nutritious vegetable. It is good source of vitamin C & K. Cabbage has been associated with a number of health benefits as well, from helping reduce inflammation to protection against colon cancer.
Green beans
Green beans are a delicious, nutritious & ubiquitous vegetable. It provides fiber, Vitamin K, and a touch of Vitamin C. Green beans are high in carotenoids, namely beta-carotene and lycopene. Both of these substances have antioxidant properties which means they are great at fighting off disease.
Okra
Okra, which is also known as ladies’ fingers or gumbo. It contains potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, folic acid, and calcium. It's low in calories and has high dietary fiber content. Studies showed that okra helped lower blood sugar and fat levels, both of which are important for the management of the disease.
