It’s almost St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ Let the fun and festivities begin!! In honor of this day let us do our part and celebrate all the yummy and nutritious green fruits and vegetables that nature provides!!
Green fruits and vegetables are an amazing source of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. They are important for overall health and wellbeing. Let's look closer at the benefits of green fruits and veggies.
Green fruits and vegetables are very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Spinach, broccoli and green apples are just some examples of green produce that are high in antioxidants!
Nutrient dense! Green fruits and veggies are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, E and K, folate, potassium, iron and calcium all of which are important for maintaining good health.
High in fiber! Many green fruits and vegetables are high in dietary fiber. Dietary fiber helps promote healthy digestion, regulates blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of certain types of cancer.
Low in calories! Most green fruits and veggies are low in calories. This makes them an excellent choice for weight management and helping to achieve your weight loss goals.
Anti-inflammatory properties! Some green fruits and vegetables, such as avocado and kiwi’s, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Boosts immunity!! Green fruits and veggies have high levels of vitamin C and other nutrients which can help boost the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and diseases.
Here are some amazing green fruits and vegetables to include in your diet. Maybe even have some on St. Patty’s Day!
Broccoli
Kale
Romaine Lettuce
Brussels Sprouts
Green cabbage
Green Grapes
Spinach
Asparagus
Swiss Chard
Arugula
Green Beans
Pears
Zucchini
Kiwi
Green Apple
Edamame
Green Peppers
Peas
Cucumber
Artichokes
Try adding these green fruits and veggies daily (not just for St. Patty’s Day!). Also try and have some of these fruits and veggies throughout the day. Add some spinach or broccoli to your omelette in the morning or jazz up your usual salad at lunch by adding some nutritious arugula and edamame. Change up your usual dinner vegetable. Maybe include some more brussels sprouts or green cabbage. Don’t forget about your after dinner snack! Maybe some green apples with cinnamon. Yum!
Enjoy your St. Patrick’s Day!
Until next time,
Mary Corso RDN,CDN