Green is a colour often associated with healthy food. ‘Eat your greens’ has been a phrase that has been drilled into almost every child while growing up. Quite a number of health benefits come with going green on your food, including curtailed weight-gain (who doesn’t want to possess a lean body) and clearer skin (it’s not very refreshing to have dull skin now, is it?). So, here is a list of 10 exclusive green foods that can help you in becoming a healthier person:

Credit: J Need
Credit: J Need

Avocado – A delicious looking green fruit that contains lutein – an antioxidant that helps to maintain a healthy pair of eyes, Avocado is also rich in monounsaturated fats that reduce cholesterol. It is packed with Vitamin E that lowers the risk of the Alzheimer’s disease as well. Avocados are delectable add-ons to salads, tacos, soups, and sandwiches.

Nopales – Also known as the nopalitos or the prickly pear, Nopales are a cactus leaf packed with fibre, Vitamin C, as well as various antioxidants. These are a healthy option to reduce the risk of diabetes, and to lower the blood pressure levels. From tacos de nopalitos to nopal ice cream, these can make for quite a delicious yet healthy snack.

Kale – A good source of Vitamins K, C, and beta-carotene, this cruciferous vegetable can help fight cancer. Kale can be a tasty addition to soups, casseroles, and even pasta, in the process boosting one’s immunity, vision, and bone strength.

Brussels sprouts – Another cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetable, Brussels sprouts are high in Vitamin C, folate, Vitamin A, and potassium. Though not very tempting in appearance, if eaten roasted, they definitely prove themselves delicious, also coming in handy to balance blood pressure.

Kiwi – Kiwi is a fuzzy green fruit that is quite dense in nutrients, being full of Vitamin C, potassium, folate, and Vitamin E. It is also a good source of fibre, and can be sliced into cereal, yogurt, or salad for a revitalising health boost.

Edamame – These soybeans are a popular Japanese diet staple, and can reduce cholesterol. They are a good protein source, and are a smart and healthy choice particularly for vegans and vegetarians. They can be added to stews, side dishes, and salads – and are also appealing as a steamed snack.

Basil – Basils are herbs that are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, also boasting of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are a good source of Vitamin K and iron, and can be snipped into salads, pastas, and in fact any appetising Italian dishes.

Seaweed – Eating seaweeds may sound odd to many, but they can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. They are rich in minerals, are a solid source of iodine, contain a healthy dose of iron, and have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. They are a popular food in Japan, and can be eaten as a salad, or even in sushi rolls.

Green Beans – Green Beans are one of the most common vegetables, eaten all around the world. They are rich in fiber, helping to lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar, thus also reducing the risk of diabetes. They can be served as side dishes, with almost anything from mushrooms to toast.

Asparagus – This vegetable is famous for a healthy dose of inulin – a ‘prebiotic’ that promotes health – and is high in fibre. It is packed with Vitamin C, K, A, and folate, along with many anti-inflammatory nutrients. Asparagus can make great soups and side dishes.

By Aditi Verma