Okay, we know that leafy greens—like kale, spinach and arugula—are key for good health. That’s exactly why one of the tenets of Impact Kitchen’s Food Philosophy is to Be Plant-Powered. Using fresh, local and nutrient-dense ingredients is the foundation of our menu!
But do you know what makes greens such a powerhouse food? If you’re looking for inspiration to get more greens onto your plate—and easy ways to do it—this post is for you.
Leafy greens, like spinach and kale, are packed with anti-inflammatory vitamins, including vitamin A and C, which can help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. It’s also interesting to note that different greens have different antioxidants. For example, beet greens are a good source of lutein—the same antioxidant found in tomatoes, known to support eye health—while certain microgreens are good sources of carotenoids, like beta-carotene.
Leafy greens, like cooked kale and collard greens, also contain high amounts of calcium, which is needed to build and maintain strong bones, as well as support nerve and muscle function. Leafy greens also contain vitamin K—which is needed to support bone metabolism—as well as magnesium, a mineral that can help protect from bone loss.
Leafy greens, like spinach, are also a high source of folate, a vitamin that plays a key role in blood cell production, as well as making and repairing DNA. Certain greens, like arugula, also contain dietary nitrates that can help to improve blood flow.
Kale
Spinach
Arugula
Lettuce
Beet Greens
Collard Greens
Microgreens
Leafy greens, like spinach and kale, are packed with anti-inflammatory vitamins, including vitamin A and C, which can help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. It’s also interesting to note that different greens have different antioxidants. For example, beet greens are a good source of lutein—the same antioxidant found in tomatoes, known to support eye health—while certain microgreens are good sources of carotenoids, like beta-carotene.
Leafy greens, like cooked kale and collard greens, also contain high amounts of calcium, which is needed to build and maintain strong bones, as well as support nerve and muscle function. Leafy greens also contain vitamin K—which is needed to support bone metabolism—as well as magnesium, a mineral that can help protect from bone loss.
Leafy greens, like spinach, are also a high source of folate, a vitamin that plays a key role in blood cell production, as well as making and repairing DNA. Certain greens, like arugula, also contain dietary nitrates that can help to improve blood flow.
Kale
Spinach
Arugula
Lettuce
Beet Greens
Collard Greens
Microgreens
Looking for easy ways to get your greens?
We’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for: a smoothie you can take on the go, try our Easy Green Smoothie—it’s in the name! Kale, spinach, peaches, banana, dates and cashews make this nutrient-packed smoothie super tasty, so that sipping your greens can be a breeze.
If you’re looking for: a power bowl you can customize that keeps you fueled, try our Everyday Bowl. Choose to load it with spinach, roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, avocado, edamame, paired with chicken breast and topped with honey lemon dressing.
If you’re looking for: a nutrient-loaded juice, try any of our Cold-Pressed Green Juices. Just dabbling in the world of green juices and looking for something that doesn’t taste, well, green? Try our Impact Green! Want something super refreshing and packed with antioxidants? Go for the 1000% Green.
What are your favourite ways to get in your greens every day?