Fresh Foods to Eat for Greater Nutrition
As America celebrates National Nutrition Month, the physicians at Weight Success Centers are serving up ideas for fresh foods to eat. There are year-round nutritious options, however, now is a perfect time to pick in-season fruits and vegetables.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes this annual observance to create awareness about the benefits of making good choices in what we eat and how we live active lives. “Food Connects Us” is the theme for this year.
If you want to connect greater nutrition to your vitality, consider adding leafy greens, berries, and other fresh foods to your plates this spring.
First, Fill Up on the Leafy Greens
With St. Patty’s Day and spring foliage, green is the color connected to March. It just makes sense to add more leafy greens to your diets this month.
- Leafy greens vary in taste and texture, but they all offer copious amounts of nutrients.
- Greens offer vitamins, calcium, potassium, iron, antioxidants, and fiber for digestive support.
- Favorites include raw romaine lettuce, collard greens, and sautéed spinach.
- Enjoy the earthy flavor of in-season arugula or load up on fresh kale with “superfood” status.
- Choose Swiss chard for a beet-like taste and a high-nutrient content, including Vitamins A and C.
- For crispness and a peppery taste, try mustard greens for your daily dose of nutrients.
- Whichever greens you choose, you can make it a meal by adding lean proteins on top.
Next, Reap the Benefits of Berries
Nutrition experts agree berries are nutritious, and spring is a great time to bring on the berries.
- Berries can help you meet daily nutritional goals vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants.
- As part of a weight-loss plan, berries are a low-calorie and no-fat treat providing sweetness.
- Remember, berries offer natural sugars as opposed to less-healthy added sugars in candies.
- Enjoy fresh-from-Florida blueberries and strawberries available this time of year.
- Savor some blackberries, raspberries, or other cane berries from California this spring.
- As always, check grocery stores for other fresh or frozen berries on a year-round basis.
As a reminder, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends filling half of each plate of food with fruits and vegetables. Contact Weight Success Centers for more healthy tips and other information about recipes, meal plans, supplements, medical solutions, and treatments to promote wellness.
Are you ready to make good nutrition a greater priority? If you are ready to start planning for a healthier life, contact one of our Weight Success Centers near you for a personalized consultation.
