What is the main advantage of consuming collard greens simply prepared (e.g., steamed) versus traditional preparations for individuals managing body weight?

Their low energy density, largely due to high water and fiber composition, increases satiety without excessive calorie intake.

Collard greens are highly beneficial for weight management because of their intrinsic low energy density. This means that a large physical volume of the food—which is mostly composed of water and dietary fiber—can be consumed while contributing very few calories to the daily total. Eating a substantial portion fills the stomach, thereby increasing satiety and reducing the likelihood of overeating later. When cooked traditionally with smoked meats and fat, a single cup can exceed 150 calories, fundamentally changing this beneficial profile. Simple preparation methods, such as steaming, preserve this low-calorie, high-volume characteristic crucial for weight control.