One Leaf Cannot Cure Diabetes or Unclog Arteries—But This Leafy Green Can Still Be Worth Eating

You may have seen posts claiming that one particular leaf can eliminate diabetes, clear clogged arteries, lower blood pressure, relieve joint pain, and reduce cholesterol in just 30 minutes.

Those claims are far stronger than the available evidence supports. No leafy green has been shown to reverse diabetes, remove arterial plaque, or dramatically normalize blood sugar and cholesterol within half an hour.

The leaves shown in the image resemble amaranth greens, a nutritious leafy vegetable commonly eaten in many parts of the world. Whether or not these are the exact leaves pictured, leafy greens can be a useful part of a heart-healthy eating pattern.

Why Leafy Greens Are Worth Adding to Your Diet
Leafy vegetables can provide:

Fiber, which supports digestive health and can contribute to healthier cholesterol levels.
Potassium, an important mineral for normal blood-pressure regulation.
Folate and vitamin K, which support normal body functions.
Carotenoids and other plant compounds, which contribute to an overall nutrient-rich diet.
Relatively few calories, making them useful when building balanced meals.
A Simple Way to Prepare Amaranth-Style Greens
Ingredients
2 large handfuls of fresh leafy greens
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 small garlic clove, minced
A squeeze of lemon juice
Black pepper
A small amount of salt
Directions
1. Wash the greens thoroughly.
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Remove damaged leaves and rinse them well under running water.

2. Heat the olive oil.