Eating leafy greens is one of the best things you can do for your health, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The research ranks the most nutrient-dense vegetables, highlighting the key role leafy greens play in a balanced diet.
We tapped Certified Nutrition Specialist Elizabeth Quinn to find out exactly why these vegetables are so good for you. CDC study on nutrient density
The CDC study analyzed 47 different fruits and vegetables to determine their nutrient density, which measures the concentration of essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds relative to their calorie content.
The researchers focused on 17 key nutrients, including fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K. Foods that scored high in these nutrients per calorie consumed were deemed “powerhouse” vegetables. Elias Morr/Unsplash
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Among these, leafy greens stood out as the top 10 contenders. Quinn explains that leafy greens are especially valuable because they provide a high amount of nutrients with a low energy load.
“A nutrient-dense food provides high amounts of nutrients in a lower amount of calories,” Quinn tells VegNews. “This makes leafy greens an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their nutrient intake without consuming excessive calories.” The 10 healthiest vegetables and how to eat more of them
By incorporating these top 10 leafy greens into your diet, you can significantly boost your nutrient intake while keeping calorie consumption low. Whether you enjoy them raw in salads , blended into smoothies , or cooked in soups and stir-fries , these vegetables offer a range of flavors and textures to explore. Want to get more of these healthy veggies into your regular meal rotation? Chefs Alex Mazzucca and Cara Duerr share a few chef tips and tricks they’ve learned operating their plant-based restaurant Seed to Sprout in New Jersey, which appeared in a recent episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
Getty 1 Watercress Watercress tops the list with a perfect nutrient density score of 100. “One cup of raw watercress contains […]
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