Green for the win – well, at least when it comes to healthy foods. You might be looking for ways to improve your eating habits. Last month, we talked about the nutritional value of kale and spinach. The next two top nutritious foods to include in your diet are broccoli and avocado. Both contain plenty of nutrients to help keep you on top of your fitness game.
Broccoli
The Romans developed broccoli from wild cabbage and ate it regularly. The green vegetable came to the U.S. during the 1700s but only became popular about 100 years ago.
You might have turned up your nose and refused to listen when you were little, but heeding mom’s advice to finish your broccoli will serve you well. One cup of cooked broccoli provides more than 100 percent of your daily recommended vitamins for vitamins C and K and is also a great source of vitamin A, folate, chromium, riboflavin, potassium, fiber and copper. Copper helps your body build red blood cells and keeps your immune system healthy.
As to preparation, you have lots of quick options that will enhance your enjoyment of broccoli. Munch on it raw with your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing snack that will help stave off your cravings for sweets. If you prefer it hot, steam, roast, or sauté it. You have several options to boost the flavor beyond the traditional cheese toppings. Add a little garlic or red chili pepper flakes with olive oil. Enjoy some cream of broccoli soup with chicken or with a vegan or vegetarian base. Whatever you decide, make broccoli a regular part of your diet.
A native vegetable of Central and South America and other tropical regions, avocados are also produced in the U.S. Several varieties are available, depending on your location, but the most common are Haas avocados from Guatemala and the Fuerte avocado from Mexico.
Avocados boast a mild flavor with a creamy, rich texture. You can easily enhance this with numerous seasonings, which make it a popular option with spicy foods, as a complement to salads or in guacamole. In 2015 or 2016, avocado trended as a topping for toast and is even served at some restaurants.
In addition to the mild and delicious flavor, avocados also pack a powerful nutritional punch. They provide vitamin E and healthy monounsaturated fats. Additional nutrients include soluble fiber, folate, vitamin B, iron, copper and potassium.
However, due to the high-fat content, you might need to limit your consumption of these closely if you are watching your calorie intake. Even so, medical professionals generally recommend monounsaturated fat in favor of polyunsaturated fats. They can also help prevent high cholesterol when included as part of a balanced diet. The high-fat content helps you feel full more quickly, which can help regulate your appetite.
Eating the right nutritional foods can enhance your work out by boosting your energy and overall well-being. Our women’s fitness center provides a wide range of services to meet your fitness needs. We are a caring gym with childcare and also offer specialty fitness classes. Contact us today.