Nutrient packed greens are a must for our health. They benefit everything from our brains to our bones. That includes supporting our immune system and our gut health, two areas top of mind these days. I recommend 3 servings of leafy greens and at least 1 serving of another type of green vegetable a day.
That is equivalent to 3 cups raw or 1 1/2 cups cooked greens along with 1/2 cup of broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus or cabbage…just to name a few. Many find this challenging under normal circumstances, but it can be even trickery during corona confinement.
When we are only venturing out to the food store once a week, or for some, once every 2 weeks, getting enough spinach, kale and collards to support this daily requirement can be difficult. We have all experienced the defeat of buying a large bag or container of greens that wilt and become slimy within a few days. So how the heck do we keep our greens fresh and viable now for a week or more?
Here are some tips that I use to keep my greens garden fresh:
- Buy a large container or bag of greens and freeze half in a ziplock bag with the air squeezed out. You can eat fresh for a few days and then have frozen greens for smoothies, stir frys or sautees.
- Layer greens with paper towels in an airtight container. The paper towels absorb the moisture that leads to accelerated decay. The sealed container keeps excess air from circulating in and out, slowing down the wilting process.
- I like to place fresh herbs in a glass of water and cover in plastic wrap secured with a rubber band. Green herbs such as parsley and cilantro will stay fresh for 7-10 days. You can also place herbs in a airtight container layered with paper towels as well.
- I place hardy green vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and asparagus in GreenBags which keeps the produce fresh for a good 2 weeks. Click here to purchase from Amazon.
So next time you get out to the grocery store, don’t hesitate to stock up on the greens. These tips will help keep them tasty and full of life for many days. Getting your daily greens is truly the one of the most important things you can do to support optimal health.
Susan Brady
is a Physical Therapist,
Nutrition Consultant and
Doctor of Integrative Medicine.
She has been treating women with osteoporosis for over 30 years and is dedicated to helping people achieve
lasting good health and vitality.
Want to learn more about how you can improve your bone health? Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult to learn more about the BONES Method™ and how it can help you achieve strong, healthy bones for life!
