Eating our veggies can do AMAZING things for our bodies, however. First of all, it is proven that vegetables contain a number of antioxidants that may help to stop certain cancers from forming in the body. Beyond that, veggies contain vital nutrients that strengthen our body's immune and digestive system. Not only that, but vegetables will keep you fuller for longer, help you lose weight, improve the appearance of your hair and skin, and make you feel so good! WOW...I guess I can't say that about those cookies sitting in my cupboard.
Let's change the way we eat! Make eating vegetables FUN for you and your family. Here are a few ways to increase your veggie consumption:
1) Want your veggies to taste like candy? Smother your veggies (peppers, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, onions, asparagus, etc.) with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. Place veggies on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400 degrees for about 20-25 minutes. Try it...I dare you! You are going to crave these veggies from now on.
2) Make a "pasta" dish with spaghetti squash instead of noodles.
4) Add chopped spinach to ground turkey, meatballs, or hamburgers.
5) Love your morning omelets? Instead of loading your omelet with cheese and meat, try topping off your omelet with salsa or sauteed veggies like onions, mushrooms, or peppers.
6) Try mashed cauliflower in your potatoes. Sounds gross, but you need to try it! Here is a great recipe:
Healthy Living Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
7) Puree cooked veggies and add to your stews and soups.
8) Baking? Add chopped zucchini or carrots into your breads or muffins.
Eating your veggies doesn't have to be boring anymore and they can actually taste GOOD! Now go do what your mother has always told you and "Eat your veggies!"
