Essential Tips to Follow Before Eating Leafy Greens – Doctors’ Advice

Leafy greens are highly beneficial for our health. However, it is important to take certain precautions before cooking them. Many people directly chop and cook greens brought from the market, but experts warn that this is not the correct method. Since leafy vegetables usually grow in soil, they often carry dirt and mud. If they are not washed properly before cooking, these impurities can enter the body and may cause health issues. Therefore, it is essential to wash them thoroughly once or twice before cooking.

To clean leafy greens, first separate the leaves by hand and gently shake them to remove some of the dirt. Then take a large bowl of water, chop the greens into small pieces and wash them 3–4 times. This helps remove dust and soil completely. To eliminate insects, you can add one teaspoon of baking soda to water and soak the greens for about 15 minutes. After that, rinse them two to three times with clean water to ensure they are completely clean. If needed, you may also soak them in vinegar water.

For easier cleaning, a mesh bag can also be used. Place the chopped greens in the bag and immerse it in a bucket or large container filled with water. This helps remove dust, dirt and insects effectively. Washing them in salt water can also help remove pests easily. It is better to divide the greens into three portions and wash them 2–3 times instead of cleaning them all at once. By following these simple steps, you can retain their nutrients and maintain good health.

Note: This information is provided for general awareness only and should not be considered medical advice. For any health or dietary decisions, it is recommended to consult a qualified doctor or healthcare professional.