Collard Greens: 8 Benefits & Uses

Collard greens are loose-leafed plants that are closely related to cabbage, Swiss chard, Brussels sprouts and other various vegetables in the Acephala group. The collard green plant grows in several different countries, including the United States. As a cruciferous vegetable,collard greens are rich in sulfur-containing compounds that support detoxification and reduce inflammation. Collard greens benefits include improved cardiovascular health, lower cholesterol levels and cancer prevention.

Collard Greens Benefits

1. Support Detoxification

Collard greens benefit the body by providing detox support. They naturally remove toxins from the body and help the body detox at a cellular level. The glucosinolates in collard greens activate detoxification enzymes and trigger the liver to produce enzymes that block free radical attacks on DNA.

2. Prevent Cancer

Collard greens benefits include cancer prevention. Collard greens work to detoxify the body thanks to their high levels of antioxidants. They reduce inflammation levels, which can help kill cancer cells, prevent tumor formation and deactivate carcinogens in the body. Studies have shown that the powerful compounds in collard greens may help protect against bladder, breast, colon, liver, lung and stomach cancer.

3. Lower Cholesterol

Collard greens benefits include the ability to naturally lower cholesterol levels. They contain soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and promotes excretion. A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that a fiber supplement provides significant and sustainable reductions in LDL cholesterol without reducing HDL cholesterol. (1)

4. Support the Digestive System

As a high-fiber food, collard greens benefit the body by supporting a healthy digestive system. Consuming collard greens on a regular basis can help combat irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive problems, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and leaky gut syndrome.

5. Support Healthy Bones

Collard greens benefits include improved bone health. One cup of cooked collard greens contains over 100% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin K. Vitamin K plays an important role in building bones. It works to increase bone mineral density and reduce fractures. (2)

6. Reduce Inflammation

Collard greens benefit the body by reducing inflammation levels. They provide the body with Vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, vision and neurological function. Foods that are rich in Vitamin A can help fight free radical damage in the body. (3)

7. Help Maintain a Healthy Weight

Leafy greens like collard greens are full of iron and other nutrients. Collard greens benefits include the ability to help maintain a healthy weight. The nutrients they contain keep the muscles functioning properly and naturally boost the body's ability to burn calories.

8. Improve Cardiovascular Health

Collard greens benefits include improved cardiovascular health. Vitamin K works to protect the cells that line the blood vessels, veins and arteries. It helps reduce inflammation that can lead to health conditions such as diabetes, stroke and heart attack.