Naked Food Spotlight: Leafy Greens
Dark leafy green vegetables have an extraordinary amount of antioxidants and health promoting nutrients with very few calories. Eating dark green leafy vegetables on a regular basis can provide anti-aging benefits, help with weight loss, cancer and disease prevention, and improve heart health.
Green superfoods are extremely rich in chlorophyll – the pigment that gives plants their green color. The molecular structure of chlorophyll is very similar to that of human blood and studies show that when this is consumed, the production of hemoglobin in blood is increased. Higher amounts of hemoglobin in the bloodstream means more oxygen-rich blood, the first and most important element that cells need to thrive.
In addition, leafy greens contain easily digestible proteins, enzymes, and a wide range of vitamins and minerals, such as A, B6, C, E, and K, copper, iron, calcium, and potassium. These particular vegetables act as mini-transfusions for the blood, a health tonic for the brain and immune system, and a cleanser of the kidneys.
Try any of the following*:
- Arugula
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Dandelion greens
- Collard greens
- Turnip greens
- Kale
- Watercress
- Parsley
- Lettuce
- Endive
- Chicory
- Broccoli Sprouts
- Mustard Sprouts
*It is important to choose organic and locally grown leafy greens whenever available to avoid chemicals, additives, pesticides, and other toxins. When shopping for produce in general, keep in mind that organic-grown food is labeled with a code that starts with the number 9.