You were probably told as a child to eat your vegetables because they’re good for you. And like most things parents tell their kids, they were right! A lack of vegetables in your diet can lead to serious health problems. Here are the times you should have eaten your vegetables:
When you’ve got a cold or the flu
When you’ve got a cold or the flu, it’s important to provide your body with all the extra vitamins and minerals it needs to help fight off infection. Not only will this help reduce inflammation, but it will also help to boost your immune system so that you can get back on your feet as quickly as possible. Incorporating more vegetables into your diet can be a great way to ensure that you get all of the necessary vitamins and minerals — ones that have been proven to have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
You’ll find that leafy greens like kale or spinach help provide nutrients without added calories and processed sugars. Additionally, adding bright, colorful fruits and vegetables such as oranges, carrots, and peppers will give you additional antioxidant power for faster recovery.
When you’re trying to lose weight
Eating vegetables is essential when you’re trying to lose weight. Not only do freeze-clipped vegetables offer a plethora of nutrients and fiber, but they also tend to be low in calories. When following a lower-calorie diet for weight loss, it’s important to keep the caloric load of vegetables high while keeping the overall calorie count low.
The easiest way to achieve this is by incorporating a wide variety of vegetables into your meals to get more nutrient density while keeping your calorie count manageable. Make sure to include some greens such as broccoli, kale, squash, and spinach. Also, crunchy root veggies like carrots and potatoes. And, of course, juicy tomatoes and more delicious varieties. With a bowl full of colorful and vitamin-rich options, you will stay full throughout the day and reach your weight loss goals while nourishing your body with all the good stuff it needs! Additionally, regular consumption of veggies helps maintain bone health and reduces inflammation in the body – two big health benefits that will go hand-in-hand with your weight loss journey.
When you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
Eating nutritious, vegetable-packed meals when pregnant or breastfeeding is essential for setting a baby up for health and development. During these times, the body needs more nutrients like iron, folate, calcium, and vitamins A and C – as well as omega-3 fatty acids that help promote brain growth. While taking prenatal vitamins is important, they can’t provide all the benefits of consuming real vegetables.
On top of their nutritional value, veggies provide much-needed dietary fiber to ensure proper digestion. Couple this with their low-calorie content, and you have a winning combination for pregnant mamas looking to ensure their little angel stays healthy throughout the process. Not only does it help them now, but it will also give your child a head start on healthy eating habits.
When you have diabetes
Research has shown that increasing your vegetable fiber intake can help reduce spikes in blood glucose levels. This benefit comes from the high fiber content of vegetables, which aids digestion and reduces the absorption rate of carbohydrates. Furthermore, certain vegetables have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization. Non-starchy options like leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, and peppers should be consumed at least five times per week to support glycemic control in people with diabetes.
In addition to reducing blood sugar levels, eating vegetables can also help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other long-term complications associated with type 2 diabetes. For this reason, individuals who are managing diabetes should make sure they eat their vegetables at least once or twice daily. By regularly including non-starchy veggies in their diets, those with diabetes can optimize their consumption of minerals and vitamins while keeping blood sugar levels in check.
When your teeth are weak or sensitive
Eating crunchy vegetables can be especially beneficial for teeth that are weak or sensitive. Because raw vegetables are high in fiber and water, they can help to remove plaque and food particles from the surface of the teeth, helping to prevent tooth decay. In addition to cleaning your teeth, raw veggies stimulate the gums and keep them healthy, preventing gum disease and tooth loss.
However, if you already have tooth loss, don’t worry. You can easily find affordable tooth implants to help restore the strength and look of your smile. Whether you need a full set of dentures or just one replacement tooth, many options are available to help fill in any gaps in your mouth. Just make sure you eat plenty of vegetables after you get your implants to prevent additional damage and promote healing.
There’s no denying that vegetables are good for your health. They boost your immune system, help you lose weight, and more. So next time you’re feeling under the weather or looking to improve your health, make sure to load up on veggies! Your body will thank you for it.
