Working towards going green? It’s time to “go green” with the foods you eat! Try adding these green foods to your diet for better health.
Incorporate “going green” into your weekly diet by adding these seven green foods and reap a multitude of nutritional benefits.
Green never tasted so good!
Brussels sprouts
These miniatures from the cabbage family are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. Plus they’re naturally low in calories and fat, which makes eating Brussels sprouts a no-brainer. Their high fiber content makes you feel full and aids in the digestive process while their stock of Vitamins A and C boost immunity. Brussels sprouts are also an excellent source of folate, which is essential to growth and development. Try Brussels sprouts braised, sauteed or even pickled.
Kiwi
This fuzzy fruit with an eye-catching interior and zingy flavor boasts the health benefits of potassium, a blood pressure regulator and circulatory disease preventer, and Vitamin E, an antioxidant that aids in skin health and enhancement. Additionally, kiwi is an especially great source for Vitamin C — one kiwi has over twice the daily recommended amount of this immunity boosting vitamin. It’s easy to enjoy kiwi; simply cut the fruit in half and spoon out the inside.
Green peppers
Not only do green peppers add a kick to your favorite dish, they also boost overall health. Green peppers are a powerhouse of Vitamins A and C, lycopene and beta carotene. Vitamins A and C protect against cell damage, lycopene has been shown to lower the risk of certain diseases (including some types of cancer) and beta carotene promotes heart and circulatory health. Whether they’re stir fried, grilled, broiled or raw, green peppers are an easy addition to any meal.
Asparagus
Asparagus spears are known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. Plus their fiber and inulin combine to aid in digestive health. The fiber in asparagus stabilizes digestion while the inulin increases nutrient absorption. Asparagus is also high in Vitamin K, which promotes bone health. Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and enjoy it stir fried or grilled.
Basil
Don’t let the small leaves of this herb fool you! Basil is packed with health benefits. Not only does basil have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, it is also an excellent source of iron. Iron is a vital nutrient, as it is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Add basil to pasta dishes or salads, sprinkle it on your pizza or mix into your pesto sauce.
Limes
The tangy tartness of limes may stop you from incorporating them into your diet, but the overwhelming health benefits will convince you to include them. Limes are bursting with free radical neutralizing antioxidants and immunity boosting flavonoids. Plus, this small fruit is full of Vitamin C. In addition to its immune health benefits, Vitamin C also builds collagen, promotes cell healing and detoxifies the body. Squeeze lime juice in your water or onto chicken, fish or tofu.
Avocado
You may have heard that avocadoes are high in fat, but do you know they’re high in the right kind of fat? Avocadoes are high in monounsaturated fat, which helps lower cholesterol levels. Other nutrients found in avocadoes are Vitamin E, which promotes skin health, and lutein, which promotes eye health. Add avocadoes to omelets and salads or make your own guacamole.
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