Nutrition Rainbow Pt.III: Green
Green is often used to symbolize things in relation to nature and the environment such as sustenance, Eco-friendliness, fertility, and much more. By now, we have a better understanding of why it's important to incorporate more whole fruits/vegetables into your diet. They possess cancer-fighting compounds, healing effects on inflammatory conditions (e.g. arthritis), and other unique properties that support/enhance proper functioning of the body. A few things about green foods worth noting is how you can lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes just by increasing your intake of green fruits and vegetables by 1 serving a day (shown by research). They are also particularly ideal for weight-loss management due to being highly nutrient dense and low in calories!
Chlorophyll:
This is the pigment/super antioxidant found in green whole foods which gives plants their ability to convert light into an energy source. Some of its marked health benefits include improving liver detoxification, digestion, weight control, and plays a critical role in making sure your hormones, cell interaction, and overall chemical reactions within the body function at the optimum level.
Other benefits:
anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer
supports skin integrity (speeds wound healing), & bone health
hormonal balance, blood sugar control
contains deodorizing properties
promote muscle/nerve function
reduce symptoms of insomnia
Green whole foods also contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin which are involved in protecting the eyes from developing cataracts and/or macular degeneration, on top of preventing heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Other Important Nutrients Found in Green Whole Foods:
Vitamins A, C, E, K
Manganese, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron
Fiber, Folic acid (folate)
Beta-carotene
Benefits: Support gut health, vision, cell/organ growth & maintenance, reinforces immune,
(refer to previous Nutrition Rainbow posts).
Super Greens:
Spinach, broccoli, arugula, dark leafy greens, kale, asparagus, green peppers, brussel sprouts, celery, watercress, swiss chard
Cucumber, avocado, kiwi, pear, honeydew melon, green grapes & apples,
Green tea
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