Asparagus and Spinach: 2 Green Foods You Should Eat
By Brandi Goodman
Going green isn't just good for the environment. It's good for you as well. In the case of physical health, people should start consuming more green foods if they want to feel and look better. Asparagus and spinach are two great options that bring a lot of benefits to the body.
Limited Calories
There are very few calories in each of these foods. A full cup of asparagus contains just 27 calories while spinach provides about 23. You can eat as much as you'd like without feeling guilty. If weight loss is on your goal list, then choosing these veggies regularly should prove helpful. Choose a bowl of spinach over iceberg lettuce to start your salad for better benefits at lunchtime. Grill your asparagus and eat it plain for a delicious addition to your meal.
Bursting With Vitamins
Both asparagus and spinach are bursting with vitamins. They both have Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Asparagus is also a good source of Vitamin A while spinach provides essential B vitamins. You'll gain many health benefits from these vitamins, including more energy, the ability to fight off disease, a boost in metabolism, and proper functioning of many bodily systems.
Improved Digestion
The digestive system needs the proper nutrients to ensure it works efficiently. Improve your digestion by consuming more spinach and asparagus each week. They each provide folate and fiber. Fiber is especially important in this process. A cup of each of these veggies offers more than 2 grams of the nutrient. Dice them up and add them into meals to get your servings.
Antioxidants for Fighting Disease
Antioxidants that fight disease are found in both of these vegetables. Quercetin found in asparagus is especially helpful at reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The phytonutrients found in this veggie are also ideal for boosting the immune system overall. Lutein and zeaxanthin in spinach help protect the eyes from free radicals that cause damage to vision. With these antioxidants and beneficial compounds consumed regularly, you have a better chance of fighting off a number of harmful diseases and remaining free from illness.
Add asparagus and spinach to your weekly menu if you want to experience the many benefits these green foods bring. They're both in season in May, making now the best time to start learning about the many meal options you can make using these vegetables.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Snellville, Ga.