Diet Hacks for Getting More Veggies - 4th Week
By Genevieve Cunningham
You’ve probably been told all of your life to eat more veggies. It starts from the moment we’re given mushy green baby food, and it spans the rest of our lives. Vegetables are one of the best foods for your body as a whole, but that doesn’t mean they’re always the easiest to eat. Veggies lack a sweet flavor, are usually not salty by nature, and are just a little bland. It can be tough to get on the veggie bandwagon, but it’s vital to your well-being. If these foods aren’t on your favorite list, check out these great diet hacks to help you get a little more.
Chop, Chop, Chop
If you don’t really like vegetables, don’t try to eat a stalk of celery or raw broccoli. That’s just asking for trouble! Instead, chop up your veggies extremely small and add them to your favorite dishes. When you do this, you minimize both the texture and the flavor, but your meal will still be big on benefits. Start with just a vegetable or two, and as you gain confidence, add more to other dishes.
Flavor Those Bad Boys
I used to know a woman who would only eat her vegetables steamed. Did she appear healthy? Yes! But was she significantly healthier than I was, a person who ate vegetables with a little cheese and salt? Not really, or at least it didn't seem that way. If you need more veggies, make them appetizing. Sprinkle sea salt on top, drizzle them with cheese, or mix them together and saute away. You should still tread lightly with the additions, but your vegetables don’t have to be boring to be healthy.
Make a Shake
Shakes are quick, easy, and refreshing. If you like shakes, just add some vegetables to your recipe. Carrots tend to help sweeten the flavor, greens can add some substance as well as a super healthy kick, and there are a million combinations that all taste great. Don’t be afraid to change it up and experiment. You’ll be getting all the veggies you need without even noticing.
Your mother was absolutely right … you really should eat your vegetables. But, you don’t have to hate them. It’s OK to like them, it’s OK to change up your recipes, and it’s OK to make them to suit you and no one else. Get creative, have a little fun, and get all the veggies you could possibly need.