Of all the cruciferous vegetables collard greens are among the greatest when it comes to lowering your cholesterol. Cruciferous vegetables include Kale, Brussels sprouts, arugula, cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, etc..
In a recent study, steamed collard greens outshined steamed kale, mustard greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage in terms of its ability to bind bile acids in the digestive tract which will, in turn, lower your cholesterol.
One half cup of cooked collard greens has as much fiber as a cup of brown rice and as much calcium as 4 ounces of Greek yogurt. Collard greens are high in vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and folate.
One of the unique benefits of collard is its ability to protect us from cancer by supporting our detox and anti-inflammatory systems.
You should include collard greens as one of the cruciferous vegetables you eat on a regular basis. To enjoy the health benefits of cruciferous vegetables eat at least 1-1/2 cup 2-3 times a week. For maximum benefit consume 2 cups of collard greens and cruciferous vegetables 4-5 times a week!
To help cook collard greens more evenly slice leaves into 1/2 inch slices and the stem into 1/4 inch pieces. Let them sit for 5 minutes to bring out the health promoting qualities then steam for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite healthy dressing.
Here is a quick 5 minute recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound collard greens, chopped and steamed
- Your favorite healthy dressing
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 medium clove garlic, pressed or chopped
- 1 TBS extra virgin olive oil
- sea salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-1/2 TBS sunflower seeds
Optional:
- 1/2 red onion, sliced (add to steamers with collard greens)
- 6 kalamata olives, sliced
- 3 TBS pumpkin seeds
- 5 drops soy sauce
- dash of cayenne pepper
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