Add Some Springtime Superfoods to Your Diet
By Donna Stark
The long, cold winter season and all of its dreariness is finally behind us, and the beautiful promise of warmer days and springtime produce is just around the corner. It’s a wonderful time of year. Everything feels new, fresh, and crisp and that’s exactly how the majority of us imagine our meals at dinner will now be. The vibrant colors and the sweet tastes of Earth’s bounty are just about ready for us to purchase at our local farmers market and it couldn’t come soon enough, for many of us are craving some lighter, naturally-fresh meals that haven’t been stewing for hours in the crock-pot.
Springtime Superfoods
Your local farmers are sure to have what you desire and this is the time of year when some of the most delicious fruits and veggies are at their peak in flavor and nutritional value. Full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these superfoods should definitely be on your shopping list.
- Apricots - Apricots are high in vitamins and are especially effective at preserving eye health. They are also known to strengthen bones and improve heart health. Apricots can be consumed directly, dried, or in various juices, jams, and jellies.
- Artichokes - Artichoke hearts have a high antioxidant content and are rich in fiber. They boost the immune system, lower cholesterol, aid with digestive issues, and protect against various forms of cancer and diseases such as diabetes.
- Peas - Shelling peas is one of the most quintessential springtime activities. They are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and are an easy and delicious addition to your diet.
- Blueberries - Treating yourself to a pint of fresh blueberries is one of life’s greatest pleasures during this time of year. It is also one of the healthiest. That’s because blueberries are incredibly rich in antioxidants and have been shown protect against cancer, neurological diseases, and heart problems.
- Asparagus - Asparagus is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and can be quite versatile in soups, eggs, or casseroles. It improves bone and digestive health and helps protect against cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.
- Strawberries - Strawberries are little bites of sweet freshness and are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. They are extremely easy to eat … just wash and go, or pop them into smoothies, on top of your favorite desserts, or into salads. They are the perfect superfood to use your imagination with!
Including some of these springtime superfoods on your shopping list is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your diet. So put the stew and crock-pot recipes away, and head on out to your local farmers market for some lighter options.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cumming, Ga.