Incorporating More “Green” Into Your Diet

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“Living green” should not only bring to mind being eco-friendly and the environment it should also bring to mind the types of food we should be eating for better health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that less than a third of American adults eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. I’m sure this doesn’t surprise you. What makes this even more troubling though, is the fact that one of the leading killers of Americans today is colon cancer which according to the American Institute of Cancer Research up to 75% of cases could be prevented by eating a diet. We need to arm ourselves in the fight against cancer, especially colorectal cancer, by eating folic acid and fiber rich foods like green leafy vegetables.

Many find it difficult to identify enough vegetable choices and find enough tasty recipes that will be satisfying enough to keep them eating right. Spinach, beet greens, turnip greens, kale, collard greens and lettuces which there are plenty to choose from including: Arugula, Romaine, Boston and many other varieties are just a few great leafy vegetables that can be incorporated into our diets.

Looking for interesting and tasty meal suggestions for inspiration? Consider the following less known varieties and food preparation ideas:

Kale is a leafy vegetable from the same family of vegetables as cabbage, collards and Brussels sprouts with a pungent flavor great eaten on its own or mixed with vegetables. Add olive oil, red wine vinegar and freshly ground pepper to raw kale for a delicious treat.

Collard greens have a unique smoky flavor that comes alive when lightly steamed with olive oil, onion, garlic and lemon and served as part of a main dish.

Raw spinach provides twice as much fiber as other greens and is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Add your favorite healthy dressing to make your spinach a little more interesting. For the tastiest toppings for your spinach salad, consider mixing together olive oil, Dijon mustard, sea salt, ground pepper, lemon juice and pressed garlic to make your own delicious Cesar dressing. Sprinkle in any of your favorite vegetables like red peppers or even mix in flavorful lettuce like Arugula and you’ve got yourself one delicious meal.

Mustard greens are very tasty and have an interesting peppery flavor. Mustard seeds are of course used to make delicious Dijon mustard. To add this tasty element to your own recipes simply sauté mustard seeds and sprinkle then on casseroles, pasta salad and even sweet potatoes. The sharp flavor adds an interesting bite to meals.

For over 20 years, Diana Walker has assisted people like you in using natural, safe options for creating vibrant health and well-being. Get her gems of wisdom and healthy recipes mini- e-book via her free newsletter at: http://www.diana2.com