Everyone’s trying to eat more healthily these days (or at least they should be!). People generally have a pretty good idea of what to avoid but can need a little help determining what’s best to substitute. 

Salads are a go-to way for a lot of people to eat more healthily. But there are better greens to eat than others. Here are 5 of the best and why they’re so good for you!

1. Kale

Kale has rocketed into mass popularity over the past couple of years and it deserves it! It crushes its competitors as far as lutein, a potent antioxidant shown to keep eyesight healthy, and is first in beta-carotene and vitamin C. Kale also has sulforaphane, a cancer-fighting phytonutrients.

2. Spinach

Popeye should have been a nutritionist, not a sailor. Spinach has the most folate of all other greens, and eating more of this B vitamin helps fight breast cancer development. Spinach also wins when it comes to potassium, which is necessary for muscle functioning and to keep your blood pressure ideal.

3. Arugula

Arugula is delicious and a favorite of top chefs across the world. You’ll find it at the grocery store alongside baby spinach. Arugula is a surprisingly good source of calcium and it has more of this bone builder than the other greens on this list. It also has high levels of natural nitrates, so it’s great to load up on before a workout.

4. Romaine

If darker greens are too bitter for you consider this lettuce. The nutrients romaine provides include beta-carotene, folate, potassium, and vitamin C. They have a lower shelf life though. So be sure to store heads of romaine well and eat it relatively soon after purchasing.

5. Collard Greens

Due to its large, leathery leaves and tough texture, Collard Greens need longer cooking times than other greens. Packed with vitamin K, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, collards also contain higher amounts of dietary fiber than other greens. A high-fiber diet can reduce your cancer risk by up to 20%.

There are tons of great greens out there and these are only a few. There are plenty of recipes including the greens listed that will help you live a much healthier life. Check back for great recipes and exercise tips all through the new year!

If you’re looking for a complete body makeover, and want to start getting expert training at our Fitness camp, check out our Year End Closeout Sale! Act soon as we have limited spots available.

Our clients are trained by the top fitness gurus in the world, and let’s not forget the tastiest customized meal plans from our expert nutritionists at our island retreat.