Picky? Try These Superfood Swaps
By Sara Butler
There are certain foods that you know on an intellectual level are incredibly healthy for you, but it somehow still unleashes your inner toddler when it's put in front of you -- yuck! You don't have to choke down something that makes you want to be sick, that's just not the ideal way to go about healthy eating. If you don't like a food, don't eat it -- it's just that simple. But you should also try to find something to take its place that has all the health benefits without the yuck factor. Here are a few superfood swaps you may want to consider.
Instead of Kale
Kale is lauded as a superfood because it's full of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and fiber. But those nutrients aren't exclusive to kale because you can find them in just about any other leafy green. Give these other superfoods a try until you find one you like:
- Bok choy
- Turnip greens
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Dandelion greens
- Beet greens
- Swiss chard
- Collard greens
Make sure you get at least two to three servings of leafy greens like these per week to keep you healthy.
Instead of Asparagus
Some people don't enjoy the taste of asparagus, but there's a simple swap you may like -- green beans! Both these vegetables are high in fiber, calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, magnesium, iron, manganese, and riboflavin. Plus, they both have high amounts of folic acid, something your body needs in order to produce new cells, helping to prevent mutations in the cellular DNA that can lead to cancer. Both asparagus and green beans are also great for your blood pressure, helping to reduce your risk of stroke.
Instead of Beans
The good news about beans is if you don't like one type, there are many others you can try! All beans, including kidney, lima, black, and pinto, are filled with protein and fiber. They also are free of saturated fats.
If beans just aren't your thing, then consider something with a similar nutritional profile such as lentils or peas. Researchers have found that eating just one serving per day of beans or lentils helps to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
There are plenty of foods out there to try, so branch out and support your health in the process!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.