Brussel Sprouts
Brussels have a lot of natural sulfur and is packed with antioxidants. They are a great source of plant-based protein. This veggie is rich in Vitamin K and C. It may reduce inflammation, improve gut health and bone strength. This beauty food may contribute to collagen production, keeping skin firm and glowing.
Avocado
Avocados contain an impressive amount of nutrients and are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B6. They provide omega 3 fatty acids which contribute to eye and brain function and help fight inflammation. Avocados are a great source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and a great ingredient to add to your diet.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is loaded with nutrients, vitamins that include; Vitamins K, C, A, E, and B6. This vegetable is packed with antioxidants and fiber. May help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, boost the immune system, and combat inflammation.
Cauliflower
This heart-friendly vegetable is packed with vitamins, minerals, and a great source of antioxidants. Cauliflower may reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and support the immune system. Choline is one of the nutrients in cauliflower which is essential for brain development.
Glorious Greens & Green Smoothies
I love green smoothies in the morning to ensure I get 2 servings of greens & fruits first thing! Use a strong blender. You can also, meal prep by placing all ingredients in a zip lock bag and freezing.
Seasonal Produce: Hail to the Kale
I can’t say enough about this nutritious green vegetable. Kale is a nutrition superstar due to the amounts of vitamins A, K, B6, and C, calcium, potassium, copper, and manganese it contains. One cup of raw kale has just 33 calories and only 7 grams of carbohydrate. So, it's a very diabetes-friendly/weight-friendly vegetable.
Seasonal Produce: Beets
There are many varieties of root vegetables, which grow in different colors such as white, red, purple, and golden.
Seasonal Produce: Mushrooms
There are many varieties of mushrooms, each with a different shape and flavor profile. I love the earthy taste of mushrooms and their medicinal properties. Mushrooms are so good for the body. Some of the mushrooms that I love are; Crimini, Portobello, Shiitake, Oyster, Chanterelle, and Porcini.
Seasonal Produce: Winter Squash
There are 16-20 different types of winter squash that come in a variety of colors, shapes and flavor profiles. To name a few there are; Butternut, Kobacha, Carnival, Blue Hubbard and Acorn.
Holiday Survival Tip: Plan and enjoy the 4th of July weekend without guilt!
July sparks the official start of summer activities for me and my family. We love spontaneous road trips, an annual visit to Martha’s Vineyard, visiting friends at their beach home, a family reunion, as well as summertime activities at home. I enjoy many warm weather activities including, golf, tennis, SUP (stand up paddle boarding), hanging at the beach, hiking and more!
Embrace and Enjoy Going Local
Local fresh produce is best however, frozen is a very close second choice. Frozen produce is harvested at it’s peak and frozen within 1 – 2 days. Conventional and organic produce found in grocery markets, unless it is local, can travel over 1,000 miles. That produce is picked before it’s peak and ripens en route to your local store. The concentration of vitamins and nutrients may be lower than produce that is local fresh or frozen.