Health Benefits of Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables are rich source of nutrition and have numerous health benefits. It is disappointing to note that despite their great nutritional advantages, they are one of the under-consumed foods in the average person’s diet. Phytonutrients in green leafy vegetables protect our cells from damage and our eyes from age-related problems. Green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are most nutritious. They are rich in antioxidants, enzymes, minerals and vitamins and are essential for our health and well being. Dark green leafy vegetables are great in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Vitamin K present in these green leafy vegetables help prevent osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Vitamin E helps prevent skin cancer. The antioxidants contained in these leafy vegetables destroy free radicals which damage our body cells. Beta carotene strengthens our immune system whereas lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent degenerative eye diseases like cataract. Green leafy vegetables are good for our skin, hair, eyes and nails.