Springtime is the season of new beginnings and superfoods! Budding trees, flowering plants, chirping birds. All of these can lead to feelings of greater well-being. As the famous composer, Gustav Mahler once said, “With the coming of spring, I am calm again.” One of the most welcome aspects of spring is the availability of fresh, locally sourced produce.
Spring is the perfect time to re-evaluate our diets and think more carefully about the food we put into our bodies. Listed below are some “superfoods” to incorporate into daily meals. Eating well helps us to look, feel and perform our best and these superfoods are health boosters with a nutritional punch – sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients.
- ALMONDS
This most nutritionally dense nut provides fiber, potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin E and iron. - AVOCADOS
They are loaded with fiber and contain healthy monounsaturated “good fat” that helps to lower bad cholesterol. -
BEANS
Beans of any variety are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, protein and B vitamins. Adding them to your diet may decrease the risk of diabetes and heart disease. -
BLUEBERRIES
They contain more antioxidants than any other fruit. Blueberries are also packed with vitamins C and K, as well as manganese. -
BROCCOLI
Broccoli is packed with disease-fighting compounds. It contains lots of vitamin C and folate, which can reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers and stroke. -
KALE
This hearty green is an anti-inflammatory food. It contains omega-3 fatty acids which fight against arthritis and auto-immune disorders. -
SWEET POTATOES
High in vitamin A, sweet potatoes can play a role in maintaining good vision, fighting inflammation and protecting the immune system.
This spring, take some time to visit local produce stands or farmers’ markets. Try new recipes that include these superfoods. You also may want to learn more about whole food plant-based supplements for an added boost. This season of new beginnings can mark the start of a healthier you!