Healthy Summer Staples
By Sara Butler
Visiting the grocery store can be a harrowing experience. Many people feel they need to dodge unhealthy foods left and right to find the diamonds in the rough that will help them to eat healthier. But if you know what to look for, then the grocery store doesn't have to be a source of stress in your life. In fact, now that it's summer there are some products you should hop on the opportunity to buy every time to go to the store to ensure you have healthy and nutritious foods at your fingertips. Here are some of the best summer staples you should add to your next grocery list.
Blueberries
If you're looking for something sweet and juicy this summer, then let blueberries fit that bill! Summer is the height of the blueberry season when these berries are at their nutritional peak. That means they are full of healthy antioxidants that help to fight inflammation and protect your cells. They also happen to be full of fiber to help you feel fuller after you eat and Vitamin C to help keep your immune system in tip-top shape.
Blueberries make a great add-in for yogurt or oatmeal. You can also eat them on their own or freeze them for a quick cool snack on those hot summer days.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Summer is the perfect time to pick up your favorite dark, leafy greens such as Swiss chard or spinach because this is their season! These vegetables make excellent sources of several important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, iron, folate, and calcium. These nutrients support bone health and immune system health. Plus, leafy greens are a great source of fiber to keep your digestive system pumping along as it should all summer long.
Leafy greens can be included in several summertime meals, from salads to pizzas to fresh wraps. You can even throw a handful in your morning smoothie.
Salsa
Nothing says summer quite like salsa! It can go on a variety of dishes and is cool and refreshing in the summer heat. Salsa can be part of a great snack or add texture and flavor to egg dishes or your favorite Mexican recipe.
Tomato-based salsas are good for you since they're packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C. With so many types of salsas to choose from, you can find a salsa that is a great addition to any type of meal.
Include these healthy summer staples in your next shopping list and you'll be sure to have things on hand to eat that are good for you as well as delicious.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sterling, Va.