An Apple a Day: Fact or Fiction? Why Eating Kale May Be a Better Daily Habit
By: Elizabeth Wieck
(A Cancer Survivor)
The old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” has been around for centuries, but is there any truth to it? While apples are undoubtedly a healthy fruit, recent studies suggest that other vegetables, such as kale, may be even more beneficial when eaten daily.
The phrase “an apple a day” originated in the 1860s in Wales, where it was used as a proverb in the form of: “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” Since then, it has become a popular health saying, with many people believing that eating an apple every day can help prevent illness and disease.
Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. However, while apples are healthy, they may not be the best daily vegetable choice. According to recent research, dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens may be even more beneficial when eaten regularly.
Kale, in particular, has become a popular superfood in recent years due to its high nutrient density. Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
Studies have found that consuming dark leafy greens regularly may also help reduce the risk of cognitive decline, improve bone health, and even help with weight management. Kale, in particular, has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
So while an apple a day may be a good start to a healthy diet, incorporating more dark leafy greens like kale into your daily routine may be even more beneficial. Kale can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or blended into smoothies. With its impressive nutrient profile and health benefits, it’s easy to see why kale is a great choice for a daily vegetable.
While the phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” has some truth to it, incorporating more dark leafy greens like kale into your daily diet will be even more beneficial for your health. With its high nutrient density and numerous health benefits, kale is an excellent choice for a daily vegetable that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and cognitive decline. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider swapping your usual apple for some fresh kale and give your health a boost.
Or just combine both kale and an apple into a salad!
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