Usually when one thinks about exercise or muscle function, they think protein. While protein is important, don't overlook the importance of green leafy vegetables! Dietary nitrates are found in almost all green leafy vegetables and a recent study has shown they play an important role in muscle function. This finding comes from a 12-year study reported in The Journal of Nutrition. To meet your nitrate needs it is believed that one should eat 1 cup of green leafy vegetables such as kale, arugula, spinach, etc a day. It is best to eat these greens raw, stir-fried or steamed to maintain their benefit. They will lose some of their nutritional value when boiled.
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