The British Medical Journal reports that a portion and a half a day of green leafy vegetables each day can reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 14%.

The study from Leicester University which looked at 220,000 adults found that spinach and cabbage and other green leafy vegetables had a positive effect on type 2 diabetes and they indicated that approx. 100g (1.5 portions) of the vegetables was the ideal amount.  5 portions of fruit and vegetables each day is still the recommended amount.

The researchers also found that although eating more fruit and vegetables in general was not conclusive proof of a lower risk, there appeared to be a ‘trend in that direction’.

The full list of vegetables identified in the study as being beneficial in lowering the risk included cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, Kale and spinach.  And although it is unclear about why these vegetables might have a protective effect, the anti oxidant levels (high) of vitamin C, for instance or the level of magnesium contained in them were proffered as possible reasons.