The Mighty Collard!

Part of cultivating wellness includes a healthy dose of nutritious food. Today, I would like to highlight the benefits of Collard Greens. Embracing those beautiful greens in your life can add a powerful low-calorie and nutritious boost to your well being. Collards are some of the most nutrient-packed vegetables around. They have well-over the recommended daily consumption of Vitamin K and Vitamin A. Vitamin K is essential for keeping your inflammatory response at a low level which is key to maintaining healthy organ function as well as a happy immune system. That fabulous dose of Vitamin A keeps you looking and feeling good as it supports healthy skin and keen eyesight.
 
Keep this in mind: both Vitamin A and Vitamin K are fat-soluble vitamins. This means you should consume these vegetables with fat. Adding a small amount of oil or animal fat to your greens is an easy way to assist the body's ability to absorb these vitamins. Adding avocado or nuts and seeds to a kale or collard dish are other great ways to get in a good fat so your body can soak in these vital nutrients!
 
Collards also have a good amount of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber that helps control LDL cholesterol levels and offers protection against hemorrhoids and constipation as well as colon cancer.
 
When seeking out the perfect collard at your local farmers market, search for unwilted, firm, and vibrant green leaves. Steer clear of leaves that are yellow or brown. Be sure to avoid the wilt factor by placing your precious collards in the fridge before enjoying them.

Happy green eatings :-)

~ Rooted Living Wellness Coach, Liz Myers, M.A., PCCI

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