6 POWERHOUSE VEGGIES TO BOOST YOUR METABLIC HEALTH

Your metabolic health is influenced by your lifestyle and your diet. Metabolic health refers to energy metabolism and how well your body can stabilise blood sugar and maintain balanced cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and a healthy waist circumference.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables is important to maintain good health overall but certain vegetables can promote metabolic health more than others.

Here are six essentials that you should know about retaining your metabolism.

Broccoli

When it comes to metabolic health, broccoli deserves to be right up there. This cruciferous vegetable contains a compound called sulforaphane that has some pretty impressive benefits. This helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that are tied to metabolic disorders. Broccoli is also high in fibre which slows digestion and promotes gradual absorption of sugars. One cup of broccoli provides over 100% of your vitamin C needs for the day, another potent antioxidant.

Artichokes

Artichokes are rich in a type of fibre called inulin which acts as a prebiotic. Inulin feeds the good bacteria in your gut microbiome which influence metabolic processes like blood sugar control and weight regulation. Artichokes also contain antioxidants like quercetin and gallic acid which have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels.

Spinach

A nutrition powerhouse, spinach is packed with antioxidants and nutrients that make it a metabolic health all-star. It provides magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid and folate to improve insulin sensitivity. The compound thylakoids found in spinach leaves can also curb cravings and support weight loss. On top of that, spinach contains a diverse range of antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

Cabbage

Cabbage is an extremely low calorie, high fibre vegetable that makes it ideal for metabolic health. It is known for its cholesterol-lowering, blood pressure reducing and blood sugar regulating effects. Raw cabbage makes a great vessel for dips and fillings. For cooked cabbage, try steaming or braising it lightly to retain the sulphur compounds that give cabbage its anti-inflammatory properties. Red cabbage has the added perk of anthocyanins that combat oxidative stress.

Kale

Kale is loaded with fibre, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin K, and powerful antioxidants. Its anti-inflammatory nutrients can help create optimal conditions for metabolic processes. Massage raw kale with lemon juice for a nutrient-packed salad or cook kale lightly to reduce bitterness while retaining its health benefits. Kale chips are a healthy snack alternative to greasy potato chips.

Chili Peppers

Chili peppers contain a compound called capsaicin which has shown promise for improving metabolic health. Studies show that capsaicin can help increase fat oxidation, boost thermogenesis and reduce appetite. The spice also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Add chopped chili peppers or chili powder to chili, soups, curries, and tacos to give your metabolism a spicy kick.

Eating vegetables isn’t the only thing that can help manage and reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome. A lot of factors come into play including sleep, genetics and exercise but when it comes to nutrition and metabolism, you really can’t go wrong with vegetables.

Tip: Pairing leafy greens with a source of vitamin C like lemon, tomatoes, or winter squash will enhance nutrient absorption in the body, Give it a try, your waistline will thank you!