If you’d like to be healthier, slimmer and more active, there is no better way than to add leafy greens in your daily diet.
Your granny said it right, greens are super food for all age groups and now that fact is backed up by scientific research too. Greens are cheap, easily available, can be added to any cuisine, and have as many benefits as any other vegetable or protein, with less than half its calorie count. Here are the top 10 greens you should add to your diet!
- Spinach: Forget about Popeye, the spinach has been a staple in Indian diet even before the cartoon was created! Tropical Amaranthus is one variety of spinach that is equally tasty as the popular palak. The vitamins that are highly valued in pasalai keerai or spinach are Vitamin A, vitamin E, Vitamin C and Vitamin K, along with nutrients such as betaine, choline, folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, and vitamin B6.
- Mustard greens: Called Methi in Hindi, these are the leaves of the same plant that produces mustard seeds. Mustard greens consist of beta-carotene that converts vitamin A to boost eye and bone health. The greens also contain glucosinolates, which are photo-nutrients that can help protect the cells of our liver. Make a stew out of these greens and enjoy it with piping hot rice or chapatti.
- Curry leaves: These are packed with iron, calcium, carbohydrates, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, plant sterols, amino acids, glycosides and flavonoids! No wonder Indians add these leaves to practically all dishes. When consumed regularly, they are believed to cleanse liver, regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, help digestion, stop hair fall and boost hair growth.
- Coriander leaves: Coriander leaf or Cilantro is a wonderful source of dietary fiber, iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and protein. An excellent supplement for the digestive system, coriander supports liver functions and bowel movements. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and is particularly helpful for those suffering from kidney problems, iron deficiency, menstrual problems and nervous disorders.
- Drumstick or Moringa leaves: Drumstick leaves are a power house of iron and the most nutritious part of the Moringa plant, being a major source of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese and protein. You can enjoy these leaves sautéed or steamed lightly,or as a stew with rice. Make sure not to cook it over 140 degrees Fahrenheit, as it destroys some of its nutritional content.
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