When your mother sat you down at the table and told you to eat your greens, she probably also told you that they are good for you. Unfortunately, most of our mothers left it at that. We want you to know exactly why certain greens are great for you, so our Gwinnett family medicine physicians have come up with a few greens you should keep on your plate and why.

Kale

It seems like kale is everywhere these days and for good reason: It is dense in nutrition and health benefits while also offering a unique flavor. Kale is an amazing source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, dietary fiber and the minerals copper, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus. Each of its vitamins functions as a cancer-fighting antioxidant and its high fiber content can reduce cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.

Spinach

Spinach isn’t just for Popeye. Our doctors in Lawrenceville, Ga., believe it should be for anyone who is looking for high concentrations of vitamin A, vitamin K and vitamin C — all of which are powerful, cancer-fighting antioxidants.

Broccoli

Broccoli has taken the forefront in the fight against cancer by providing its eaters with high concentrations of cancer-fighting antioxidants, anti-inflammatory components and detoxifiers. Even a little broccoli daily can go a long way towards increasing your overall health.

Romaine Lettuce

Most people know romaine lettuce as the star of a good Caesar salad, but the doctors at our Lawrenceville health clinic believe you should know it as an excellent source of vitamins A and K, folate, manganese, potassium and molybdenum. Dieters will also love romaine’s low calorie count and high dietary fiber.

Cabbage

Cabbage is another cancer fighter, filled with vitamin C and dietary fiber. We recommend you experiment with a wide variety of cabbages, including brussels sprouts, bok choy and red cabbage, to find the varieties that you enjoy the most.

Turnip Greens

Turnip greens have long been a soul food favorite, but did you know you can use them in salads or tossed into main dishes and soups? Adding turnip greens to your life will improve your intake of vitamins A and K, iron, calcium and magnesium, while boosting your overall health.