The temperature may still be hovering in the single digit range, but I'm bold enough to say spring is in the air. Though we have to wait till mid-March for the season's official change, the big day is signaled by ripe fruits and veg that will be staples throughout the season. Load up on these picks and ready your body for a healthy, happy spring!
Broccoli
Everyone's favorite flower-headed veg is back in season! The hearty green is has a reputation for being good for you, and that's not just your momma talking. Broccoli boasts more than 135% of your daily dose of vitamin C. It's been touted to benefit everything from eyesight to sun-damaged skin, digestion and metabolism. A score of studies have hailed broccoli's cancer fighting capabilities, and it's been called an all natural allergy medicine. If you're gearing up for the healthiest of springs, pack your diet with these greens and you'll be set!
Artichokes
Here in the US, we're lucky for California. Not just because it boasts some of the country's greatest climates, but because the sunshine state produces a huge haul of artichokes for our dining pleasure every March. These spiky treats are ripe and ready to eat, and our pre-spring bodies are very thankful. Artichokes have more antioxidants than any other vegetable, the bulk of which is found in the pulp of the leaves. Artichokes also help lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. For those with IBS or Crohn's disease, artichokes pack extra power, by aiding digestion and reducing symptoms.
Lettuce
Okay, this one sounds like a joke, but stick with me here. The salad staple is actually a good for you green, if you stay away from the iceberg variety, which packs little more nutrients than water. Lettuce has more vitamin A than any other veg, along with a healthy does of vitamins C and K, calcium and fiber. In ancient Egypt, lettuce was a truly valued veg, hailed for its reputation to enhance sexual prowess. So, sticking with that salad diet may have some unexpected - but pleasurable - side effects.
Pineapple
Sweet, juicy and delicious, what more reason do you need to devour this yellow fruit. Pineapples are loaded with potassium, vitamins A and C, calcium and phosphorus. But, their stand-out nutrient is manganese, which is linked to stronger bones, dental health and better digestion. In some studies, pineapple has helped decrease macular degeneration, or vision loss, in older adults, and alleviated the pains of arthritis. Now if we could only find an easier way to get through that spiky exterior!
Broccoli
Everyone's favorite flower-headed veg is back in season! The hearty green is has a reputation for being good for you, and that's not just your momma talking. Broccoli boasts more than 135% of your daily dose of vitamin C. It's been touted to benefit everything from eyesight to sun-damaged skin, digestion and metabolism. A score of studies have hailed broccoli's cancer fighting capabilities, and it's been called an all natural allergy medicine. If you're gearing up for the healthiest of springs, pack your diet with these greens and you'll be set!
Here in the US, we're lucky for California. Not just because it boasts some of the country's greatest climates, but because the sunshine state produces a huge haul of artichokes for our dining pleasure every March. These spiky treats are ripe and ready to eat, and our pre-spring bodies are very thankful. Artichokes have more antioxidants than any other vegetable, the bulk of which is found in the pulp of the leaves. Artichokes also help lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. For those with IBS or Crohn's disease, artichokes pack extra power, by aiding digestion and reducing symptoms.
Lettuce
Okay, this one sounds like a joke, but stick with me here. The salad staple is actually a good for you green, if you stay away from the iceberg variety, which packs little more nutrients than water. Lettuce has more vitamin A than any other veg, along with a healthy does of vitamins C and K, calcium and fiber. In ancient Egypt, lettuce was a truly valued veg, hailed for its reputation to enhance sexual prowess. So, sticking with that salad diet may have some unexpected - but pleasurable - side effects.
Sweet, juicy and delicious, what more reason do you need to devour this yellow fruit. Pineapples are loaded with potassium, vitamins A and C, calcium and phosphorus. But, their stand-out nutrient is manganese, which is linked to stronger bones, dental health and better digestion. In some studies, pineapple has helped decrease macular degeneration, or vision loss, in older adults, and alleviated the pains of arthritis. Now if we could only find an easier way to get through that spiky exterior!
