Although the wind can be biting and the threat of snow still exists, the warm days interspersed with the cold get me excited about spring. As someone who makes a concerted effort to eat seasonally, the prospect of so many new foods coming available is so exciting!
What to look for in the coming weeks:
- Asparagus: A low calorie nutrient powerhouse. High in Vitamin C (immune booster!), folate, iron, fiber, thiamine, beta carotene.
- Spring Onions: Very high in Vitamins A, C, K, with a good amount of folate, and trace amounts of other nutrients. Use the green and white parts. Great raw on salads and chilis, and delicious grilled.
- Sprouts: Sprouts are so much more nutrient dense than the plants or beans that they will eventually become. You can also make your own! Eat your sprouts raw, as heat destroys some of the nutritional benefits.
- Herbs: These often flimsy looking plants are chock full of vitamins and nutrients.
- Microgreens: These are the stage in between sprouts and baby greens, and are the most nutritious of the greens. Beautiful as a garnish, as well. For a detailed explanation, click here.
One thing in common with all of these foods is the color green. Green is indicative of chlorophyll, which has numerous benefits, just a few of which are listed here:
- Good for the blood and is energy giving
- High in magnesium, a nutrient key to hundreds of chemical processes in our bodies, and one in which most Americans are deficient
- Immune system booster
- Anti-oxidant
- Anti-carcinogenic
- Supports the body’s natural detoxification process
- Helps support patients undergoing chemotherapy
For more specific information about the benefits of chlorophyll, click here.
A common characteristic of many of Daryl’s clients when they first come to her is the relative lack of the color green in their diets. Many, but certainly not all, of the vital nutrients we need come from green vegetables. Food is the first choice to get the vitamins and minerals we need to survive and thrive. If you don’t think that you are getting what your body requires, feel free to contact Daryl to arrange a consultation.