Stay Lean with Greens
Chomping down a big bowl of greens makes the average person’s nose wrinkle… but, perhaps, if you knew some of the magnificent benefits to not only maintaining your health, but preventing disease, you may chew just a few leafy greens every now and then. The good news is that once your palate becomes accustomed to leafy green vegetables, you may just increase the frequency.
To sum it up, leafy green vegetables are full of antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals, just to name a few. To better explain these powerful health benefits, here are a few points:
- Phytochemicals may reduce inflammation and eliminate carcinogens.
- Phytochemicals regulate cell production and cleanse old cells.
- Biophotons (sun energy – light) controls the vital, cellular processes of your body.
- Fiber/roughage improves bowel movements, helps maintains a healthy digestive tract, may lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar and blood pressure.
- Antioxidants may lower risks of cancers, eye diseases, and osteoporosis. Maintains joint flexibility and hair and skin elasticity (Beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and quercetin).
- Folate may improve brain function, memory, and mood.
- Water within the leafy greens assists in healthy bowel movements and hydration.
- Calcium, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Potassium, Iron, B vitamins, etc.
All this adds up to an opportunity to reduce risk of diseases and possibly, just possibly loss weight and flatten your tummy!
Some of the yummy leafy greens you may consider are:
- Water Crest
- Turnip Greens
- Swiss Chard
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Arugula
- Collard Greens
- Endive
- Escarole
- Radicchio
- Spinach
- And, Mustard Greens
Of course, using organic will give you the highest nutrient support, but if you cannot get organic leafy greens, then just wash them well. I soak my greens in clean water with ¼ cup white vinegar for about 10 minutes, then rinse again prior to serving them.
There are many ways to consume your greens, these include:
- Eat them raw or cooked.
- Drink them in smoothies.
- Drink them in juice.
- Drink them in powdered blends.
My favorite is to place a mixture of green leafy vegetables in a large bowl, sprinkle with olive oil and salt. Mix with your hands until the greens are broken down into a small moist pile. Sprinkle with your favorite vinaigrette dressing or some apple cider vinegar. Then add a chopped apple, some dried blueberries, and cubed cheese of your choice. Serve with a smile and be sure to chew each bite 30—50 times prior to swallowing.
For more ideas on how to eat your greens, go to www.intestinalhealthbook.com pages 153-154 Enjoy!
