Leafy Greens : Collards vs. Watercress vs. Dandelion Greens
We all know about the leafy greens like spinach, kale, arugula and hear about how healthy they are and their importance for our overall health. But, what about the overlooked, less common leafy greens like watercress, collards and dandelion greens? What do they bring to the table?
Collards
Collard greens are some of the best sources of vitamins K, C and A, which are crucial for bone health, growth of bodily tissues, skin and hair. They are also rich in glutathione, which helps regenerate liver tissue, cleanse the liver and detoxify fat. Longevity researchers even believe that the amount of this powerful substance (glutathione) found in our cells can be an indicator of how long we are going to live. Choline, a crucial neurotransmitter, can also be found in collard greens and helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning, and memory functions.
Dandelion Greens
Dandelion greens are most often used to make tea, and better known especially to gardeners as weeds, but are quite a powerhouse with its healing health properties. Jam-packed with iron, vitamin K, a higher calcium content than kale, and vitamin A, which help promote eye health, decrease water weight and bloating. Not only that, but it fights inflammation, boosts the immune system, and acts as an anti-aging agent in skin care products.
Watercress
Watercress has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments since ancient times. Even though it’s 95% water, it is still packed with a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals, and contains a host of health benefits. From helping lower blood pressure, fight inflammation, delaying brain aging to supporting bone health, boosting immunity and improving thyroid health, this semi-aquatic plant does it all. Actually, it’s ranked number one on the US Centers for Disease Control’s Powerhouse Fruits and Vegetables list.
So, next time you make a salad, soup or smoothie, why not add one of these nutrient-packed leafy greens to help boost your overall health.