You could jeopardize your overall health if you don't pay attention to the foods you eat. Consuming too much junk food, for example, can lead to chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, clogged arteries and more.
Making the decision to improve your lifestyle by following a primarily raw, plant-based diet is a health-conscious decision that improves your metabolism, boosts your immune system and promotes overall wellness and longevity while reducing your risk for chronic conditions like the ones listed above. Some of the most important healthy diet staples consist of vegetables, and that's because they're so high in nutrients and provide a multitude of benefits.
"The amount of fruits and vegetables we eat every day depends on age, gender and more."
According to Choose My Plate, an initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the amount of fruits and vegetables we eat every day depends on age, gender and level of physical activity. The daily recommendations, based on these factors, range anywhere from 1 to 2 cups of fruit, and 1 to 3 cups of vegetables. They recommend filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal. We say that is a good start, but adults should strive for at least 10 servings a day for optimal health.
But just how favorable are veggies when it comes to overall wellness? Here are five of the top benefits of eating vegetables:
1. They're an Important Source of Nutrients
When your diet consists of eating a plethora of vegetables, you're fueling your body with many of the vital nutrients it needs to thrive. According to Choose My Plate, a healthy eating initiative by the United States Department of Agriculture, vegetables are rich in potassium, fiber, folic acid, vitamins A and C and more.
2. They're Low in Calories
Vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. This means you can fill up on a lunch of veggies without worrying about going over your suggested daily caloric intake. This makes it easier to eat hearty meals without worrying about counting calories, and can also aid weight loss and maintenance.
3. They Promote Optimal Gut Function
Fiber is beneficial to the body in the sense that it can reduce the occurrence of bowel problems, such as constipation. Due to the water and fiber content in most vegetables, these healthy foods nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut, which keeps it healthy and regular.
4. They're a Natural Mood Booster
You know that following a diet rich in vegetables is great for your physical health, but have you considered how beneficial it is for your mental well-being? According to Mental Health America, following a diet that relies on nuts, whole grains, fruits, unsaturated fats and vegetables is better for mental wellness than one that consists of meat and dairy products. Additionally, MHA said that those who follow a primarily raw, plant-based diet are 30 percent less likely to develop depression.
5. They're Great for Immunity
Since vegetables are loaded with essential nutrients, they have a great reputation for optimizing the immune system. Specifically, leafy green vegetables activate T-bet, a gene that produces immune cells in the gut, according to Dr. Mercola. Those immune cells maintain immunity and inflammation, protect the body from pathogenic bacteria, improve intestinal balance and prevent food allergies.
Beyond consuming vegetables, you may consider our Advanced Superfood product. The blend of 35 organic ingredients, including cereal grass juice powders, leafy greens, microalgae, sprouts, prebiotic fibers, sea vegetables, and other vegetables, makes this product one of the most nutritious and convenient ways to fuel your body.
