Bring on the veggies!

For many, vegetables are tasteless and seriously unappetizing. Some people try to avoid them as much as possible yet they are fundamental to the human body.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

For many, vegetables are tasteless and seriously unappetizing. Some people try to avoid them as much as possible yet they are fundamental to the human body.Eating a diet rich in vegetables including greens, cabbage, lettuce, broccoli, spinach, sukumawiki, egg plants and others may reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, obesity, diabetes and strokes as well as protect you from certain cancers.Some vegetables are rich in potassium which may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and help decrease bone loss, according to Gerald Ruzindana, a nutritionist with Health Inspirations.Ruzindana says that vegetables also contain many nutrients, including Vitamin A, C, folic acid, potassium and dietary fiber, most of which are low in calories and fat. "Vegetables are also better eaten steamed and boiled instead of fried, to preserve their natural nutrients. These should be cooked and eaten as side-dish at least one meal a day or four times a week,” he says.Vegetables need to be eaten everyday because the body needs a supply of vitamins every day, and these vitamins are also found in fruits.He added that dietary fiber from vegetables helps reduce blood cholesterol levels, constipation and lowers the risk of heart disease. Pregnant women should eat vegetables rich in folic acid as its quite vital to them and their unborn baby. According to the website WHFOODS, vegetables as a group are so low in calories that it is very difficult to gain weight even if you over eat them.Your meal will also look more appetizing with some color and that brings appetite. You shouldn’t have your food all plain yet you can make it more attractive with some lettuce, cabbage or greens.Make it a habit to prepare vegetables as a side-dish for your meals and you will be one healthy woman!