10 Healthy Green Foods..and Deliciously

Though it’s tempting to drink green beer and down a half-dozen sugar cookies topped with green sprinkles, why not consider some healthier fare this period. It’s no less festive, but it is infinitely healthier!

Try these 10 foods that are as nutritious as they are delicious.

1. Kale: Found on menus everywhere, this healthy veggie is Mother Nature’s golden child. Most leafy greens are rich in vitamins K and C, and kale is no exception. These important nutrients have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits. Try sautéing this green with olive oil, garlic and a pinch of salt
   
2. Avocados: Here’s your excuse to load up on guacamole. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are proven to improve heart health and may even flatten your tummy. Add these creamy vegetables to sandwiches, salads and even eggs.
3. Kiwi: This small but mighty fruit has 85 percent of your vitamin C needs and well as generous amounts of fiber. Slice this on top of your cereal for a kick in the morning.
4. Soybeans: These legumes can be found on the menu of any Japanese menu, and with good reason. They’re a great vegetarian source of protein, iron, and fiber – not to mention potassium! Toss them in your stir-fries or steam them in a pod for a healthy snack.
5. Brussels Sprouts: Lately these green veggies are having a renaissance. They’re served as side dishes as restaurants roasted, toasted and with some bacon. With off-the-charts numbers for vitamins K and studies show that they main contain cancer-preventing properties. Roast these suckers with olive oil, salt and pepper for a treat.
6. Pistachios: Not everything on this list is a vegetable! These nuts make an especially delicious snack, and studies have shown that their high levels of antioxidants may help lower cholesterol
7. Spinach: Just like kale, this popular salad component is one of the most nutritious on the planet. Along with tons of vitamins A and K, spinach is also a great source of folate, which is an especially important nutrient for pregnant women.
8. Broccoli: Containing a variety of vitamins, broccoli is also a good source of fiber, which can improve heart health and help you stay slim. Eat it steamed if you can – you get more nutrients that way.
9. Granny Smith Apples: Apples are good sources of fiber and vitamin C, and they’re particular important for weight control. A recent study found that healthy adults who ate a medium-sized apple approximately 15 minutes before a meal ate 15 percent fewer calories at that meal.
10. Limes: Though you won’t have these as a snack, add lime juice to drinks, marinades and more. Rich in vitamin C, some studies show they have antibacterial and immune-boosting properties.

Eat up!