As kids, we always hear our mothers say, “eat your vegetables.” Most of us do not understand why we have to eat those green stuff when we are perfectly fine with our steak. Most of us have the same predicament as children but as we grow older, mothers do know best.
Vegetables are a good source of nutrients that keep us healthy and active. As we grow older, the vitamins and minerals that we absorb from eating veggies support our immune system and maintain the perfect balance that our body needs to keep us energized and healthy. Here are some of the vegetables that can keep you fit and healthy:
Carrots
These vegetables are rich in beta carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A in your body, which gives healthy skin and good eyesight. These root vegetables are good for weight loss because they contain low levels of calories. So, if you are aiming to slim down then, try adding carrots to your diet.
Beet Greens
Most of us love to eat beets and discard the stems and leaves. However, there’s a lot of nutrients to get from these parts of the beets. The stems and leaves, also known as beet greens are good substitutes for spinach and other leafy greens. Beet greens also contain both calcium and vitamin K. Both of these compounds are important for building strong bones.
Aside from that, Vitamin K in your diet helps prevent neuronal damage to your brain. They’re welcome additions to salads and other recipes. Speaking of beet green recipes, you can find it now on Foodal.
Broccoli
This popular vegetable is low in calories and contains nutrients like vitamin A and vitamin C. It is 90% water and has a good amount of protein that is necessary to maintain our body in good condition.
Mushrooms
With their tasty and earthy flavor, mushrooms have vitamins that help keep your heart healthy. Some of us are asking if they are vegetables. The answer is, yes, they are classified as vegetables.
Mushrooms are delicious and are a great alternative to meat. Many health shops are now swapping meat for mushrooms on their menu and this is great because you are not deprived of the simple pleasure of eating your burger. Even with mushrooms, your food will still taste delicious.
Kale
Another popular vegetable is Kale. This vegetable is a member of the cruciferous family. It is fully loaded with beneficial nutrients that will improve your diet. Cruciferous vegetables like kale, cabbage, and broccoli are known to reduce the incidence of cancer. Kale is a good option for your daily supply of calcium if you are lactose intolerant. It also contains vitamin K.
Spinach
This vegetable boosts your immune system and is also rich in vitamin K. Although this won’t give you ridiculously-sized biceps like Popeye, it still contains vitamins and minerals to keep your body strong and healthy. This leafy veggie is high in fiber that aids your digestion. It also contains vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, and iron.
Asparagus
Asparagus has lots of fiber and nutrients such as folate and vitamins A and C. Its benefits include improvement in digestion, lower blood pressure, and protects the body from certain forms of cancer. It is also known as an anti-aging food because it contains an antioxidant called glutathione, which is believed to be effective in slowing down aging.
Tomatoes
Although tomatoes are fruits, they’re used mostly with vegetables and are a staple in some recipes. It does not hurt that its color complements well with the greens. It is also rich in lycopene that helps improve cholesterol levels. Tomatoes are also known for their antioxidants which aid in fighting cancer.
Onions
Onions give our food flavor, but it also contains a flavonoid called quercetin that is good for the heart and prevents cancer. Quercetin is an antioxidant that helps prevent heart disease and control blood sugar.
Eggplants
These vegetables contain lots of nutrients for a healthier heart. It has fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and potassium that support your heart. The most popular way of cooking an eggplant is by making it into an omelette.
Takeaway
Investing in our health is essential for everyone, whether young or old. People need to stack up on energy to keep going for the rest of each day, whether at work, school, or home. Besides, it will greatly benefit you as you grow older because the nutrients that your body absorbed from eating vegetables will keep you away from the risk of certain diseases.
Getting fit early on and eating our veggies will do us a world of good so that we can still enjoy life with our loved ones. No amount of money can buy health. All you have to do is eat right and live a good lifestyle. Eating vegetables is a surefire way to begin our journey towards being healthy. I guess mothers are right to force on us our veggies.
