LivFit - 5 Winter Vegetables for Great Health

5 Winter Vegetables for Great Health

With winter in full swing, what you consume especially matters when it comes to safeguarding your immunity. And while primarily consuming a balanced meal that does not include sugary drinks and foods or highly processed foods is the way to go as far as eating right is concerned, there are some foods in particular that pack a punch as far as nutrition goes

Let’s explore some vegetable choices for this season, and the health benefits thereof.

Kale - On the whole, kale is one of the healthiest leafy vegetables to consume. This trusty member of the cruciferous vegetable family is an extremely versatile and nutritious green. Packed with polyphenols, and flavonoid antioxidants like kaempferol and quercetin that have amazing anti-inflammatory effects, kale also contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as B vitamins, copper, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and manganese.
Parsnips - A root vegetable with a mildly earthy taste, parsnips are the perfect addition to any meal, and can be roasted, baked, and added to soups, stews, and dals alike. A great source of potassium, manganese, and magnesium, parsnips also contain high levels of Vitamin C, as well as vitamins B and E.
Collard Greens - It is a wise choice to think green when it comes to immunity, and collard greens perfectly fit in. They are an excellent source of Vitamins B and C, as well as manganese, magnesium, and iron. Overall, this cruciferous vegetable is high in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, adding much value to bodily functions.
Brussel Sprouts - Let the individual size of this vegetable not fool you - though small, brussel sprouts are mighty when it comes to nutritional value. High in fibre, they are a superb source of Vitamin K. They also contain high levels of Vitamin C which plays an active role in immune function. Their high antioxidant content also helps neutralise the ill-effects of free radicals that contribute to inflammation.

Red Cabbage - While both the red and green varieties of cabbage are great for health, one cup of red cabbage contains 85% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Red cabbage also contains high levels of Vitamins K and A. It also contains potassium, manganese, and B vitamins. However, it is particularly worthy to note that when it comes to antioxidant content in particular, red cabbage really comes through.

So, while consuming a balanced meal that contains a good mix of vegetables on the whole, be sure to consider some of these listed vegetables in your daily intake. Try complementing them with your favourite mains as a salad, or mix them into your favourite comfort food - your immune system is sure to thank you for it.

5 Winter Vegetables for Great Health

5 Winter Vegetables for Great Health

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