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A nutritionist says the latest social media healthy eating trend could leave you bloated and uncomfortable. A video shared online promoting 'dinosaur time' has been viewed more
than 4million times. The trend involves eating as many leafy green vegetables such as spinach or lettuce in one go. The effect is a dinosaur-like munching style and has been dubbed the
‘dinosaur time’ trend. Registered nutritionist and Yakult science manager Dr Emily Prpa said leafy greens are 'true nutritional powerhouses' rich in vitamins K, A, and C. She said:
"These nutrients play important roles: vitamin K supports bone health, vitamin A promotes healthy vision and immune function, and vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and supports immune
defence. "Greens like spinach and kale also contain flavonoids, a type of polyphenol known to support the gut in several ways. Research shows these compounds can help strengthen the gut
barrier, modulate immune responses, and act as fuel for beneficial gut microbes. "In addition, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and chard are good sources of soluble fibre. Soluble
fibre feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, which then convert it into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) - compounds that help maintain a healthy gut lining and provide energy to
intestinal cells. "That said, going overboard with large quantities of raw leafy greens - especially if you’re not used to high-fibre meals - can sometimes lead to bloating or digestive
discomfort. To ease your gut in, start slowly, chew thoroughly, and make sure to drink enough water. "It’s also worth remembering that variety is key. While leafy greens are fantastic,
aim to include a rainbow of fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet. Studies show that people who consume 30 or more of these different plant foods per week
tend to have a more diverse and resilient gut microbiome compared to those who eat fewer than 10. And a thriving gut microbiome has been linked to benefits ranging from improved mood and
immunity to better weight regulation and overall wellbeing." Dr Prpa said there are better ways to up your intake of greens, including: * Make simple swaps in your daily meals to boost
your intake of leafy greens, for example by eating a bag of mixed leaves instead of just spinach * Add them to sandwiches, pastas, soups and curries * Stock up on frozen options,
particularly spinach and kale, which can help keep the costs down of buying fresh each week * Choose seasonal greens for better value * Batch cook meals with greens to save time while
keeping your diet nutrient-rich. By having a well-balanced diet, you can keep your gut happy and healthy, leading to better overall wellbeing.