Healthy Village

Some of the most nutritious vegetables for healthy weight loss begin with the letter "A".

Here are a few that you should make part of your nutritious eating plan. After all, to lose pounds for life you need variety and plenty of vegan sources of vitamins and minerals.

Artichokes

Artichokes are high fiber and an excellent source of magnesium and the trace mineral chromium. They also contain decent levels of vitamin C, folic acid, biotin, and the trace mineral manganese.

Studies indicate artichokes can help lower "bad" cholesterol due to a naturally occurring plant chemical in the leaves called cynarin.  One study found a decrease in LDL cholesterol of 18.5% for the group that received the cynarin extract.

Another trial demonstrated relief of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome for the group of patients eating artichokes as compared to a control group.

To prepare an artichoke, cut off the thorny tips, slice about a half inch off the stem, cut in half, and steam. Peel off the leaves one at a time and dip into a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a member of the lily family along with leeks, garlic, and onion. Asparagus has no fat, does not contain cholesterol and is low in sodium. Asparagus is packed with nutrients like folic acid, potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6, A, and C.

A few of the more unique health benefits of asparagus include helping reducing arthritis symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties, cleansing the blood of waste material because it contains an amino acid called asparagine, and preventing cancer as a result of an an anti-oxidant glutathione.

Asparagus is very easy to prepare and eat. Just slice off the tough bottoms and lightly steam. Serve with a little sea salt for a tasty side dish. Asparagus can also be grilled. Just brush with a little olive oil and garlic.

Avocados

OK so avocados are technically a fruit. They are one of the most nutritious foods you can eat. Avocados contain oleic acid, one of the "good fats" that has been found to lower cholesterol, prevent breast cancer, and prevent prostate cancer.

Avocados are also good for your heart because they contain generous levels of potassium and folate. Several studies have demonstrated that individuals who consume folate-rich diets have a much lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Avocados are a staple of a vegan lifestyle. They are incredibly versatile, and add "creaminess" to all kinds of dishes. As an example, check out this recipe for Avocado Breakfast Burritos www.lose-weight-for-life.com/avocado-breakfast-burritos.html.

Here's a link to 5 scrumptious sandwiches featuring avocados vegetarian-recipes.suite101.com/article.cfm/top_5_vegetarian_sandwiches.

Becoming healthy and losing weight permanently is all about exploring the most nutritious foods. Start by making these "A" vegetables are regular part of your nutritious eating plan.