Let’s face it, it can be difficult to eat enough veggies a day to look after your health. The desire to get through the last few brussel sprouts, kale or broccoli can be low if the consequence of eating them is going to be seen in many years to come. Good news is recent studies have shown that getting your 5 or more a day can have immediate benefits to your life.
- Do you want a summer glow all year round? Studies have shown eating more vegetables can improve the appearance of your skin tone! One study showed the positive effects were seen in increasing amounts based on the increased number of servings of fruit and vegetables from 2 to 8 serves after only 4 weeks.
- Improve your mental wellness. Studies have shown participants who ate up to 8 servings of fruit and vegetables daily had feelings of happiness, life satisfaction, and well-being. It may be time to see your vegetables not just as a limp piece of plantation but as a vessel of health for your body.
- Stressed at work? A study has shown that reaching for vegetables over the other sometimes food choices can help reduce stress. So, chew on a carrot if you are under the hammer at work instead of a muffin the from the kitchen.
How can you develop a better relationship with your vegetables? Try taking advantage of the plant forward movement to increase your veggie intake:
- Zoodles or any type of vegetable made into noodles are a great example of how you can make your veggies more fun and enjoyable as part of your everyday eating regime. Another trend to try is cauliflower rice which you can use to substitute rice or go half and half with whole grain rice and cauliflower rice to sneak in the extra while not losing the delicious taste and benefits of whole grain carbs.
- Have you tried sweet potato toast? Using slices of sweet potato instead of bread can sneak in an extra serving of vegetables in a delicious and easy way. Try topping with some cottage cheese and avocado for pure perfection.
- #loveyourveggies. If you are proud of your veggie eating achievements show it! Instead of just taking pictures for you Instagram of your indulgent ‘sometimes foods’ choices, try showing your friends your veggie creations! They may not always be super pretty, but you know what, they make your insides feel prettier afterwards compared to a multi layered burger with fries will. Start your own pick me up movement which comes from eating your veggies, your body will thank you for the trend setting.
Lost on how to get started? A key is to keep it simple. If you have frozen vegetables, canned, fresh, these are all vegetables and eating vegetables in any form beats not eating them at all. Try adding some, one, any to any meal or snack as you remember and give yourself a hi five each time you do. Small steps are like small gold medals for long term success and optimal health for life!
Take home message: Veggies can be cool, and their benefits can be felt and seen immediately or in the very near future. They can help you look your best, feel your best and full of vitality for your life! Jump on board with the best trend hitting the foodies this year, eating your veggies!
References:
- Appleton KM, McGrath AJ, McKinley MC, Draffin CR, Hamill LL, Young IS, et al. The value of facial attractiveness for encouraging fruit and vegetable consumption: analyses from a randomized controlled trial. BMC public health. 2018;18(1):298.
- Mujcic R, A JO. Evolution of Well-Being and Happiness After Increases in Consumption of Fruit and Vegetables. American journal of public health. 2016;106(8):1504-10.
- Errisuriz VL, Pasch KE, Perry CL. Perceived stress and dietary choices: The moderating role of stress management. Eating behaviors. 2016;22:211-6.
