Health benefits of vegetables: Add curry leaves, mustard greens and spinach to your winter diet

Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and calcium. This leafy vegetables helps defend the immune system and fights against various illnesses (Image: Canva)

Leafy vegetables are an essential part of any healthy diet, but getting enough of these nutrient- and vitamin-rich superfoods can be a challenge for many of us who, to be honest, never learned to like them. Blame it on childhood memories of those boring, bland greens ruling our plates, or plain ignorance, the fact is that not including vegetables in our daily diet is robbing us of a long list of health benefits.

The truth is that you can never go wrong with leafy vegetables. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which are essential for boosting the immune system. Their high fibre content aids digestion, supports heart health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, green vegetables are are low in calories, which helps in weight management and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Here are five leafy greens that are excellent for maintaining good health during the winter:

Spinach: Also known as palak, spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and calcium. This leafy vegetables helps defend the immune system and fights against various illnesses. Its antioxidants reduce oxidative stress, promote heart health and even lower the risk of chronic diseases. Spinach is loaded with fibre, which improves digestion, and its low-calorie nature makes it a superhero for weight management.

Fenugreek: Methi leaves, the vibrant greens from fenugreek, are extremely nutritional. Rich in  soluble fibre, they aid in digestion, regulate blood sugar, and combat aches and pains. Their rich vitamin and mineral content, notably iron, are a must for a balanced diet, as they help contribute to your wellness.

Mustard greens: Sarson ka saag, the beloved mustard leaves from Punjab, bring a host of health benefits to your plate. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, these vibrant greens maintain the immune system and ensure a healthy you. Full of antioxidants and fibre, they battle free radicals and improve digestion.

Amaranth leaves: If you have a weak immune system, fighting the chilly weather becomes difficult. Amaranth leaves, also called Chaulai saag, are abundant in vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for an improved immune system. Besides, these leaves are high in iron, helping keep your blood and energy levels up and fighting winter fatigue. The antioxidants present in these leaves keep you strong and warm from the inside

Curry leaves: Adding curry leaves to your meals can be a flavorful way to fortify your health and vitality when temperatures drop. Known mostly for their flavour, curry leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe winter-induced respiratory discomfort, making breathing easier during the chilly months. Moreover, these popular leaves aid in digestion and assist in regulating blood sugar levels. Lastly, these leaves are rich in antioxidants and nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, and E that strengthen the immune system and help combat seasonal illnesses.