Is going green worth it?

ADHERING to a diet dominated by dark green, leafy vegetables accompanied by ‘green’ beverages is not the most appealing dietary plan for most people. In fact, dietician and nutritionist Jenelle Solomon says that while there are many benefits to be gained from a green diet, there are some drawbacks as well.

“The best dietary laws are [those] that Jesus Christ subscribed to and are offered freely in the Bible. Did Jesus eat meat? Yes, He did. For some people, ‘going green’ is a matter of health and so perhaps it is mandatory for recovery in the interim, while for others it may simply be a personal choice. I personally don’t recommend it as a permanent diet to adhere to,” Solomon told All Woman.

She said her recommendations are based on the fact that these diets could interfere with other dietary needs, which could, in turn, pose potential health risks.

“For example, some people who have a B12 deficiency stand the risk of developing anaemia; also women who are trying to conceive, or who are expecting babies, need vitamin B12 to ensure the proper functioning and health of nerve tissues, the brain and red blood cells,” Solomon explained.

Women can’t decide to optimise their B12 intake the day before they conceive. It’s an ongoing process where they prepare the body for conception; otherwise, they expose their foetus to the risk of neural tube defects.

Solomon said that these neurological disorders/defects are like those that could affect the foetus in the consistent absence of folic acid in the diet.

“Pro vegans who say vegetables can provide B12 need to remember the factor of bioavailability. It is important to acknowledge that eating plants as a source of B12 doesn’t mean that the body will readily or optimally absorb it for use,” Solomon warned.

In assessing green juices, Solomon said their make-up, and particularly where they are made, often dictates whether or not drinking green is worth it.

“Green juices in fast food restaurants usually have a high sugar content, and so they may very well be doing more harm than good since we know that these high-sugar juices may leave consumers with excess fat. However, all natural green juices on the market, I do recommend. They can be a good source of folic acid and vitamin K,” Solomon advised.

Solomon said green juices are alkaline, which is essential to create balance in the otherwise acidic blood, which is a prime contributor to diseases such as cancer.