When you are trying to lose weight, adding greens to your diet is a must. Not only do they contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, but they also have a ton of fiber which can help you feel fuller longer. There are so many ways that you can eat and cook greens, so it’s super easy to get them in your diet every day. Here are some of Dr. Goglia’s favorite greens and how you can start eating more of them.
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Cabbage
This green may not be as popular as kale, but it has just as many health benefits as other leafy greens. Cabbage is high in sulfur, which means it supports your body’s natural detoxification system, making it easier for you to lose weight. It is also high in vitamin C, 1 cup has 50 percent of your needs for the day. And as an added bonus, it has a high water content which helps you stay hydrated as you eat.
Cabbage is great to eat cooked or raw, and the flavor is mild so it mixes well with a variety of recipes. Try adding it thinly sliced to salads, or quickly stir-fry it with some onion and sesame oil for a tasty side.
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Brussel Sprouts
A member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, brussel sprouts pack a ton of nutrition in tiny bites. This vegetable helps stimulate the pancreas and kidneys to regulate hormone production and detoxification.
Like cabbage, brussel sprouts can also be eaten raw or cooked. Try slicing them thinly and adding to a salad, or roast them with other vegetables.
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Romaine
A great salad green, romaine is full of water, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients are great for increasing energy levels and having more restful nights of sleep. They also act as immunity boosters, protecting you from catching a cold. Even though romaine is not as dark green as spinach or kale, it is still a superfood you should add to your diet.
Have it raw and make a refreshing smoothie with romaine, banana, pineapple, and cashews. Or try it grilled, drizzled with olive oil and spices.
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Kale
Kale is a popular superfood, and for good reason. One cup of kale contains 1180% of your needs for vitamin K, 98% of vitamin A, and 71% of vitamin C. Kale is also packed with antioxidants, which are molecules that fight the aging process and decrease inflammation.
To benefit from all of the vitamin C kale contains, eat it raw in a salad or smoothie. To make it easier to digest, saute or steam it and add to any recipe.