I know, I know. Vegetables are boring. Well maybe not. Studies have shown that the more fresh vegetables one eats, the healthier you'll live. You'll lower your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, digestive issues just to name a few. No matter what kind of diet suits you (Paleo, Vegan etc), the truth is don't skimp the vegetables. But are all vegetables created equal? Sadly, no. The vegetables that give you the best bang for your buck are the green ones. Specifically, the Brassica vegetables. These include cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale, chard, spinach. Why are they so special? They activate the liver's detoxification system. If our liver isn't cleaning our blood properly, then we accumulate toxins as well as hormones. This increases our risk for cancers and other diseases. Symptoms that your liver may not be detoxifying properly include:
- sensitivity to smells (perfumes, paints) or alcohol
- coffee keeps you awake or makes you jittery
- fatigue
- headaches or migraines
- acne or other skin disorders
- dark circles under the eyes
- allergies
- constipation, digestive problems
- excessive body fat
If you have any of these symtpoms, it is especially important that you eat lots of vegetables! Make sure that half your plate is filled with healthy, non-starchy vegetables.