There is a false assumption with society’s view of vegetables: that they are not tasty. In reality, many foods can be prepared to a person’s particular palette, to be delicious. And this is key because if people are not enjoying vegetables, it means we aren’t getting the valuable nutrients we need that supplement our diets. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of including lots of green, non-starchy vegetables in your daily diet.
1. Vegetables are low calorie
Lots of vegetables are high in a nutrient profile when you compare them to your overall caloric intake. Vitamins and minerals are abundant in many green veggies, and veggies of other color have unique antioxidants, and necessary nutrients for the body, too. Because of their low carbohydrate content, they go great with high fat, protein sources like organic meats, poultry, and fish. You can continue to lose weight while eating non-starchy vegetables on a low-carb, high-fat diet.
2. Vegetables can be high in fiber
High fiber vegetables have the benefit of creating a filling sensation in the gut, but not actually contributing a significant amount of extra calories. In addition, it helps to regulate blood sugar, thus helping those with diabetes, as well. The fiber from good vegetables acts as a digestive aid, helping the process of moving food along the digestive system and eventually eliminating more of the waste. Fiber helps to create a digestive routine, which can aid remarkably in bowel regularity. Fiber also contributes to a healthy gut by assisting probiotics to grow organically.
3. Vegetables can be prebiotic
So we mentioned probiotic before, but prebiotic is food that probiotic bacteria like to feed on. Imagine if you held a giant feast of tasty food for your digestive system village. All of the villagers came to the feast and then helped to make a happy, hardworking village. Prebiotic veggies such as artichoke hearts, brussels sprouts, and leafy greens are great foods for the good bacteria that hang out in your gut. This can also increase your general mood and energy level because your metabolism is maximized through good fiber intake!
4. Vegetables are great in a high-fat diet
Veggies play an important role in a high-fat diet because they have lots of food vitamins and minerals. When I see patients in my office, I go over which particular vegetables are best to include in their low carb diets to ensure they continue to burn fat.
So while a lot of people might prefer meat and potatoes meals, throwing a heaping serving of fresh veggies can help digest all of that fine fuel. Consider eating at least 5 cups of veggies a day, and eat organic as much as possible. Veggies can be quite delicious, especially if you know why they are so good for you.
