3 Reasons to Go Green With Your Diet
By Genevieve Cunningham
If you need an easy way to improve your diet, you can always go green. While this might be a bit off-putting at first blush, it doesn't mean that you have to be a vegetarian. Thank goodness! For many, the vegetarian lifestyle is wonderful, but for many others, it’s not exactly the goal. If you want to get more of the healthy greens into your diet, start with sides and snacks. Sound impossible? It’s easier than you think … and it’s most definitely worth it. Take a look at these reasons to go green in your diet, and get your health moving in the right direction today.
It Will Probably Lower Calories
Most green foods are low calorie. Spinach, lettuce, green beans, peas, and celery are all on the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to caloric intake for a meal. If you’re using a green side choice to replace something else -- rice, potatoes, or bread -- then you’re replacing a high calorie option with a choice that will significantly lower the amount of calories you’re eating on a daily basis. Even if the flavor takes some getting used to, the drop in overall calories will be worth the effort.
Greens are Nutritionally Dense
Unless you’re reaching for green Skittles, you can almost guarantee that your green food choice will be high in vitamins and other nutrients. Leafy greens -- kale, collards, lettuce -- are high in Vitamin C and fiber. Peas are an excellent choice of protein. Bell peppers contain Vitamins C and B6. If you want your meal to be nutritionally dense, adding plenty of green food is an easy way to do it.
You’ll Transform Your Daily Diet
Sometimes all it takes is a little experimentation to break out of the norm and completely transform your diet. If you always eat white rice at dinner, it might be difficult to switch to green beans. But over time, and with some delicious recipes, you may find some healthy options that will make it easier to keep a well-balanced, low-calorie, nutrient-packed menu. Start with greens, and you’ll be making a huge step in the right direction.
Going green -- whether you go full vegetarian or simply alter your side dishes -- is a great way to improve your diet. Fewer calories, more nutrients, lower fat, and overall a healthier choice. Make the switch, and you’ll probably find your body, mind, and general health moving in the right direction in no time at all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Albuquerque, N.M.