Signs You're Not Eating Enough Vegetables
By Sara Butler
Vegetables sometimes are seen as bland and unexciting. People think they lack flavor or taste bitter, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Vegetables probably have a bad reputation because many people were forced to eat them as a child -- and even though your mom tried, they may not have been prepared in the most appetizing way.
All of this can lead to people not eating as many vegetables as they should. Vegetables are high in important nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. These are all things your body needs in order to work properly. If you're not getting the recommended three cups of vegetables each day, then you may experience some important side effects. Here are some signs you're not getting the vegetables your body needs.
Your Mood is Low
If you're not eating enough vegetables, then chances are you're eating too many carbohydrates or fat in your diet that can lead to a big blood sugar crash after meals or leave you feeling sluggish. You'll likely suffer from memory loss, changes in mood, and fatigue. If you can swap out high-fat foods from your diet for foods such as vegetables, then you can help provide more sustained energy and stabilize your mood.
You Feel Hungry Fast
How often do you eat one meal only to find yourself ready to eat another not too long after? This can be the result of not eating enough vegetables. Fiber is one of the important nutrients that are supplied by vegetables, and fiber helps you to feel fuller for longer. If you don't get enough fiber in your diet, then you may notice that you're snacking soon after meals. Eat more vegetables and you'll likely eat less overall, too.
You Suffer From Muscle Cramps
Your muscles need potassium in order to function correctly. Not getting enough of it can cause muscle twitches and cramps that can be quite painful and bothersome. Vegetables and fruits are both great sources of potassium, including dark leafy greens and sweet potatoes.
How to Eat More Vegetables
If you know now that eating more vegetables is what you need to do, then there are some easy ways to add more into your everyday diet. A few tips include:
- Adding vegetables such as spinach to your morning egg scramble, breakfast sandwich, or smoothie
- Try having a hummus or turkey wrap with vegetables or have a sandwich with a side of raw vegetables and dip
- Fill half of your plate with vegetables at each meal
Don't avoid vegetables but embrace them in new and exciting ways in your diet!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenwood Village, Colo.