It is always important to get a variety of nutrients, experiment with your plate and to try new vegetables and flavors. But there are some real reasons why you should have a variety of greens and not just consume the same one day in day out.
Oxalates
A natural compound that can sometimes build up in your body and cause symptoms and illness. One example is If you have a history of kidney stones you may have an issue with oxalates, although this is a complex issue and can manifest in many different ways.
Oxalates are high in Kale and Spinach, two common vegetables that people tend to eat a lot of. So try alternating with lower oxalate greens such as romaine lettuce to prevent issues.2.
Goitrogens
These compounds are found in cruciferous vegetables and have been linked to hypothyroidism. Even though these veggies are extremely healthy, If you have conditions with your thyroid or autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto's you will want to try to moderate your intake and mix up your veggie intake with other varieties.
Alkaloids
Another compound that is found in vegetables, typically higher in nightshades ( think eggplant, tomato, peppers) that can build up in the body and cause inflammation and issues for some that are predisposed.
Nutrition
As with all food, it is important to get a variety of nutrients. Some vegetables are higher in certain vitamins such as Vitamin A or Vitamin C, while others may provide more antioxidants or fiber. By rotating the greens you use you are sure to get a wide range of nutrients as well.
Varieties to try throughout the day
- Bok choy
- Baby bok choy
- Romaine
- Cabbage
- Spring Mix
- Spinach
- Kale
- Dandelion greens
- Beet greens
- Turnip greens
- Watercress
- Chard
- Collard greens
- Mustard Greens
- Arugula
- Rapini
- Frisee
- Endive
- Mizuna
- Escarole
- Butter lettuce
- Mache
- Radiccio