It’s Spring time...
Spring is the perfect time to give our house a big clean out, put away our winter coats and start to smell the flowers. However, One of the most exciting things about this season is the range of whole foods that start to grow and become available to us. We already know that eating fruit and vegetables helps us to stay healthy, but by choosing seasonal foods in our local area, this can help us save money and benefit the environment. Unfortunately, during those colder months of winter we tend to pack away a few extra kilos, but the good news is that many spring foods promote weight loss naturally! Check out the Top Ten Spring Foods listed below that will give your body the Spring clean it deserves!
Asparagus
This vegetable is one of the highest providers of folate (a B vitamin great for expectant mums). Asparagus is also high in vitamins A and C and is a natural cancer-fighter. These green goodies are famous for boosting moods, so expect to feel chirpy after consumption!
Garlic
Allicin is the compound found in garlic that keeps us from overeating as it stimulates satiety (fullness) in the brain. Garlic produced in the springtime is slightly milder and sweeter than the white bulbs produced later in the season and is great chopped up in salads, stir-frys and omelettes. As well as being a natural anti-biotic helping to block out infections, spring garlic is super high in iron, so make sure you get your fix of garlic this Spring!
Strawberries
Where to start with strawberries? They are filled with potassium, fiber and antioxidants! These beauties can help with skin repair, skin tone and wrinkle prevention. Strawberries aren’t only ideal for a morning snack but they can even be used as a homemade facial due to their exfoliating properties. Try strawberries in smoothies, salads and raw desserts for a revitalising taste.
Blueberries
Finally, it’s blueberry season! Not only do these super berries taste amazing in almost anything, but did you know blueberries are an excellent brain food? The antioxidant called anthocyanins found in blueberries, has been proven to increase signals among brain cells that result in resilience, enhanced learning and improved memory.
Spinach
Spinach contains vitamins K, C and A, assisting in healthy blood, immune function and strong vision. These leaves are also famous for being high in iron which is a key component in red blood cells that help to fuel our muscles with oxygen, resulting in increased energy! This Spring, opt for a Popeye-sized serving of Spinach and you will be reaping in the benefits.
Artichokes
Fresh artichokes are loaded with antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals including magnesium which is vital for generating energy. Studies show that approximately 68% of us are not including enough magnesium in our diets .However, just one medium artichoke provides 77mg of magnesium and only 60 calories, so get down to the farmers markets this Spring and grab yourself some of these energy boosting goodies.
Legumes
Beans, beans and more beans! The soluble fibre in beans lowers cholesterol levels in the blood, reducing the risk of heart-disease and high blood glucose levels, and the insoluble fibre helps with regular bowel movements. Our bodies have to work hard to break beans down to access the fibre from them, so we actually use up energy digesting them, resulting in natural weight-loss. Legumes are also an excellent source of protein for vegetarians or for a meat-free day.
Walnuts
The amino acid, tryptophan, found in walnuts creates the chemical ‘serotonin’ which is a natural mood-regulator helping to decrease stress and assist in mood stability. Walnuts also contain monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 essential fatty acids which are known to prevent coronary artery disease and strokes by favouring a healthy blood lipid profile. These essential fatty acids also help to lower blood pressure as well as the risk of colon, prostate and breast cancer.
Peas
Whether you prefer SugarSnap or Snow peas, green peas will stop you from feeling tired or sluggish because of their high levels of iron. One of the many benefits of garden peas is their level of vitamin K that has been proven to play a role in bone mass building by promoting osteotrophic activity in the bone. This vitamin can also limit neuronal damage in the brain and therefore plays a significant role in Alzheimer’s disease. Get experimental in the kitchen this Spring with peas (chilled pea soup… delicious) and see the benefits for yourself.
Beets
Beat cancer and heart disease with beets! This phytochemical-rich vegetable is high in carbohydrates which means they are a great source of energy. They also contain sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron and phosperous. These versatile veggies can be eaten raw, juiced, boiled, steamed, roasted, sautéed or even put into soups. Beets are not only excellent for our physical well-being but they have been shown to be an immunity booster, so grab yourself some fresh beets and get creative!