Eating healthy doesn't have to be hard. An easy way to improve the nutrients in your diet and stay healthy is to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Here are four healthy vegetables to add to your diet today:
Squash
The butternut squash is a seasonable vegetable available in the Fall that is nutritious easily grown. This squash is high in vitamin A and beta-carotene. It also contains both of the minerals selenium and zinc are known to boost fertility and to help to lessen the occurrence of some chronic diseases. It is a versatile vegetable that can work as both a side dish or a main course. Chopped it up and roast it in the oven or boil it for a vegetable casserole. The butternut squash is also popular as a soup.
Beetroot
This striking vegetable with its dark reddish-purple color has many healthful benefits. With cleansing and detoxifying qualities, medical research links it to help lower high blood pressure. Beets are also high in folic acid or vitamin B9 needed to repair the body's DNA. Additionally, its high antioxidants levels help to protect your immune and cardiovascular systems. Add cooked and sliced beetroot into a salad, or its juice as a healthy refreshing and cleansing drink.
Water Cress
The humble watercress was virtually unknown in Western diets until recently. Its recent rediscovery is due to its exceptional nutritional qualities and high antioxidant levels. The watercress has higher concentrations of vitamin C than oranges. Its high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and other essential vitamins and minerals help to maintain healthy skin and vision. Watercress has a deliciously fresh, clean, peppery flavor that makes it a perfect garnish for summer-fresh salads or blended and used as an ingredient for a green smoothie.
Green Vegetables
Thankfully, green vegetables have seen a recent dietary revival due to medical research highlighting their health benefits. Dark green vegetables like Brussel sprouts, broccoli, kale, spinach, and cabbage were considered unpopular, but are now enjoying a comeback because of their nutritional value. These vegetables are not only high in vitamins such as vitamin A, B, and C, but they also contain iron which is essential for maintaining healthy blood. They are also believed to help protect against cancer. When cooking these vegetables ensure you do not overcook them as you reduce their vitamin content. The best way to prepare them is to steam as this is the best way to retain their benefits and flavor.
Visit your local grocery store and make sure to stop by the vegetable aisle.
