Mother, grandmothers and great grandmothers were always telling children to eat their greens; generally adding that they wouldn’t get any pudding if they didn’t. They were right to insist. Leafy greens have many health benefits…
The Brain
Eating greens, such as kale, spinach, watercress and cabbage, is now known to help brain function and may possibly slow the decline in the brain associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s and memory loss that often accompanies old age. Leafy greens’ high folate content assists with prenatal development, helps prevent depression, epilepsy and psychiatric disorders.
Skin
Your skin is the body’s largest organ, weighing an average of 8 pounds. Leafy greens are full of antioxidants which help repair the skin and keep it healthy and youthful. Not only that, the folate in leafy greens is essential for DNA repair and lutein, which protects the skin from sun damage and also helps prevent dehydration and loss of elasticity.
Protect Against Diseases
Leafy greens are packed full of antioxidants and phytochemicals which may help fight cancer forming free radicals. The folate, carotenoids and isothiocyanates found in leafy greens are possibly powerful cancer-fighting compounds. Initial studies show promising results, indicating that the daily consumption of greens may not only protect against cancer but may reverse it and other life-threatening diseases.
Gut Health
A healthy gut is essential for heart health, brain health and a strong immune system. In fact, a healthy gut is vital for us to function at optimal levels. Leafy greens help protect the gut from becoming a host to bad bacteria while encouraging good bacteria to flourish. The high fibre content in greens also ensures intestinal and bowel health, plus reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and strokes.