Did your mother always say, “eat your vegetables because ____.” Below you will find reasons why your mother “knows best!” This month, let’s celebrate our mothers and their wonderful nutrition advice!
Mom always said, “Eat this vegetable because it will lower your numbers.”
Artichokes are a great choice because they lower LDL and increase HDL. They contain high amounts of phytonutrients. Try mixing them with beans or meat or stuffing them with seafood. The globes are cooked by deep-frying, sauteed in oil or barbequed. The heart of the artichoke is the main part that is eaten. So, eat up!
Mom always said, “Eat this vegetable because it will open your eyes to the possibilities.”
Carrots have beta-carotene and Vitamin A which is necessary for night vision. Carrots reduce cholesterol levels and clean your teeth and mouth, too! Try shredding carrots in coleslaw, on salads, in wraps and in baked goods (cakes, muffins). Carrot sticks or baby carrots make for a great snack. Eating carrots raw or steamed provides the most nutritional value. Yum!
Mom always said, “Eat this vegetable because it’s packed with iron.”
Mushrooms are a great source of iron and over 90% of the iron value can be absorbed by the body to promote red blood cell production and keep you healthy. Try sautéing any type of mushroom with onions for a quick dish or add raw sliced cremini or white mushrooms to top any salad, omelets, breakfast scrambles and quiches. That should hit the spot!
Mom always said, “Eat this vegetable because it’s full of vitamins.”
Collard greens are rich in vitamins A and C and possess high levels of vitamin K and calcium. Vitamin K increases your bone mass. Collard greens blend with salads, wraps or with cooked meat/fish dishes. Its fresh leaves can also be juiced and mixed with other complementing greens, fruits and herbs. Now that’s good advice!
Mom always said, “Eat this vegetable because it’s full of fiber.”
Sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index and may reduce episodes of low blood sugar and insulin resistance. And one medium sweet potato provides about 6 grams of fiber (skin on). Try adding roasted sweet potatoes and pecans to a salad and top with balsamic vinegar. Also try adding sweet potato to hash browns or just bake them! Yum!
Okay, well maybe mom didn’t say these exact words, but there’s a good chance she did say the dreaded (by some) phrase, “Eat your vegetables!” This Mother’s Day, whether you spent the day together, connecting with her on the phone or fondly remembering some of your times together, we hope you made a point to honor her and all the amazing motherly figures in your life and “eat your vegetables!”
