10 Best Greens for You!

I'm sure you already know the importance of eating greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. Research shows that consuming dark greens may help you maintain good health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and reducing your risk of heart disease.

Dark greens are rich in beta-carotene, folate, and vitamins C, E, and K, which help protect against free radicals. In addition to being dark leafy greens, arugula, beet greens, bok choy, collard greens, kale, mustard greens, Swiss chard, and turnip greens are cruciferous vegetables, which are packed with antioxidants that may help prevent cancer. Eating dark greens regularly may also protect against certain cancers, promote normal eyesight, and improve gastrointestinal function.

Include these 10 nutritional powerhouses in your diet:

1. Arugula
2. Beet greens
3. Bok choy
4. Collard greens
5. Kale
6. Mustard greens
7. Romaine and red-leaf lettuce
8. Spinach
9. Swiss chard
10. Turnip greens

How much should I be consuming?
At least 3 cups of dark green vegetables per week. Bottom line is that all vegetables contribute to a healthy eating plan. So eat a wide variety — green and all the other colors — throughout the week.