Ever noticed now horribly anaemic and weak gorillas and elephants look? No, me neither. I guess it must be all the meat they consume. No again. In fact, gorillas and elephants eat almost exclusively of plants and in particular green, leafy plants.
For vegetarians and vegans (people who choose not to eat meat, fish and in some cases also eggs and dairy products) it is vital to replace the iron and protein from the animal products with plant-based food sources. Dark green, leafy vegetables are one easy, affordable and tasty way to do this. Spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, mustard greens, collard greens, chicory, swiss chard, broccoli, bok choy and choy sum are all excellent sources of iron and protein and also contain fiber and folate.
When 100 calories of boiled broccoli (357g / 12.6oz) is compared to 100 calories of broiled porterhouse steak (30g / 1oz) something stands out. The broccoli contains 11.1g protein compared to 6.5g in the steak and the broccoli delivers 2.2mg iron compared to 0.8mg in the steak. It’s clear that the plant-based food certainly delivers the iron and protein we need.
As Author Ellen White writes, “Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigour of intellect that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet. “{MH 296.1}
Why not try to use green, leafy vegetables every day in your cooking? Take a look at my first cooking show episode ‘Coconut Curry Tofu’ to see just how easy and yummy cooking with greens can be!
Click here to watch Dr Michael Greger’s video ‘The Healthiest Vegetables’ for extra motivation https://nutritionfacts.org/video/the-healthiest- vegetables/
May you come to love dark, green leafy vegetables as much as my family and I do.
The Adventist Home Educator 