6 Vegetables You Should Be Eating
Sometimes we’ll stick to the same routine when we reach for a salad or snack because we know what tastes good—or at least we know what won’t go straight to our thighs. However, many women are not getting all the nutrients their bodies need to prevent cancers, maintain a healthy weight, and make us feel good about our bodies. Sometimes the veggies we opt out for are the ones we need the most.
BEETS—You may not be the biggest fan of beets but its plethora of health benefits may help you to decide otherwise. Beats are a wonderful cleanser for the body as it aids in the blood’s purification, acts as a tonic for the liver, and is a preventer of a number cancers. Not only are they packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, & C, fiber, potassium, and iron, beets are also a high source of energy in that they are low in calories and high in sugar (a form of sugar that is released into our system gradually versus a candy-like sugar). Beets are also beneficial for your mental health and libido. Beets are comprised of betaine, which is a substance used to treat depression. They are also made up of high amounts of boron, which is a direct producer of human sex hormones, so they act as a form of Viagra!
CAULIFLOWER—This vegetable is a great addition to any salad as it is low in calories and is an aid in weight loss diets. Its richness in folate is a wonderful treat for pregnant women, as well as its contents in niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine (other great B vitamins. Cauliflower is also a heart healthy vegetable as it protects our heart from many diseases, can help lower cholesterol levels in the body, and reduces the risk of various cancers including prostate, breast, colon, ovarian, and bladder. Its high level of antioxidants aid in the acceleration of aging and its omega-3 fatty acids acts as an anti-inflammatory.
MUSHROOMS—Though this is technically a fungi and not a vegetable, it is still a highly recommended addition to any food intake. Mushrooms have absolutely no cholesterol or fats and have very little carbohydrates. The fiber and enzymes that make up the fungi help lower cholesterol and are recommended as a low energy food source for diabetics. Mushrooms are a great source of vitamins and minerals essential in building a strong immune system as well as are great for losing weight (due to its low fat and high fiber). This fungi is also very effective in preventing breast and prostate cancer due to its level of Beta-Glucans and Linoleic Acid have anti-carcinogenic effects.
EGGPLANT—Not being one of the most appealing-looking vegetables on the planet, eggplant have such a great taste and health benefits. Its levels of fiber help with digestion and colon health. Due to its low level of calories, this too is a great addition to any weight-control diet. Eggplant acts as one big powerful antioxidant for the body while simultaneously helping to lower cholesterol levels
BRUSSELS SPROUTS—In addition to being a preventer of a plethora of cancers, Brussels sprouts are also a huge supporter of cardiovascular health. They help prevent and reverse the damage made by blood vessels. Recent studies show that this vegetable helps to maintain and stabilize DNA within white blood cells by blocking activity of sulphotransferase enzymes. Its level of vitamin K regulates the body’s inflammatory responses along with its level of vitamin A, which boosts immunity, protects the eyes, and maintains healthy bones and teeth.
SWISS CHARD—This is more of an all-around healthy treat for your body. Swiss chard promotes hair health, since its rich in biotin, while simultaneously regulating your blood sugar. Its levels of lutein maintain eye health while its level of iron provides the body with healthy blood circulation, preventing anemia. Its source of vitamin K and magnesium is crucial to brain and bone health—all while being a huge preventer in colon cancer.
Even though not all of these veggies seem tastefully appealing, there are so many great recipes to use in order to make them taste good while also keeping all of their amazing health benefits. Before you say no to the things our parents forced us to eat as children, give them one more try by throwing them in a stir-fry or adding a pinch of sal
