Collard greens, part of the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes kale, broccoli, brussels sprout and cabbage to name a few. This healthy vegetable provides lots of nutrient with few calories. One cup of boiled collard greens contains 63 calories, 5 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, 11 gram of carbohydrates including 8 grams of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, over 250% of your daily needs for vitamin A, over 50% of your daily needs for vitamin C, 26% of calcium, 12% of iron, 10% of both vitamin B-6 and magnesium. It is also an extremely rich source of vitamin K and folate, thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid, choline, phosphorous, and potassium.
Collard greens packs a healthy punch, and is associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle related health conditions. Eating a large amount of plant based food like collard greens, decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and also promote a healthy complexion and hair, and an increased energy and lower weight gain. Collard green intake has been associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal and lung cancer, It has been linked with targeting prostate cancer. The sulfur intake of the vegetable known as glucosinolates, has been studied for that ability to impede the cancer process at different stages.
The antioxidant known as alpha-lipoid has been known to lower glucose levels, and changes in diabetic patients, If you suffer from constipation, collard green is high in fiber content. It also help with your sleep pattern and your mood, because of the choline and helps with depression.
Look for collard greens with firm, deep green leaves. Sauté with fresh garlic and onions in olive oil. Add black eye peas and brown rice or quinoa for a healthier version of a southern favorite. Black eye peas represent good luck to ring in the new year. Start the new year off right with a healthy meal and you will be filled with gratitude for a healthy body to start the new year.
Food is your medicine.
