EAT YOUR GREENS!

Vegetables contain a range of antioxidants and other disease-fighting compounds that are very difficult to get anywhere else. Plant compounds called phytochemicals can reduce inflammation and eliminate carcinogens, while others regulate the rate at which your cells reproduce, get rid of old cells and maintain DNA. Studies have repeatedly shown that people with higher vegetable intake have:

• Lower risks of stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease and heart disease;
• Lower risks of certain types of cancer, eye diseases and digestive problems;
• Reduced risk of kidney stones and bone loss;
• Higher scores on cognitive tests;
• Higher antioxidant levels;
• Lower biomarkers for oxidative stress.

Also, leafy vegetables are ideal for weight management as they are typically low in calories. Green vegetables are also a major source of iron and calcium for any diet. They are a good source of minerals and vitamins (such as magnesium, vitamin C and folate), and of course, dietary fibre.

So yes, Mother was right all along. I bet Grandma also told you they were good for you! So eat them daily! Most adults should eat at least 5 serves from the vegetable group a day.

This post is part of the Friday Greens meme,
and also part of the Food Friday meme.