Reach for summer’s bounty

Take a bite out of the season

It’s easy to recharge your body during summer with the abundance of fresh fruits and veggies that will keep you hydrated and cool. Yes, ice cream and burgers are tasty, but eat up summer’s harvest in abundance for optimal health.

Blueberries

Blueberries are recognized as “superfruit” because of the high amount of antioxidants. Blueberries are found in blue, maroon to purpleblack color. They are rich source of vitamins such as A, C, E & K; dietary fiber; iron and manganese. They help fight cancer, decrease cholesterol level, promote cardiovascular health, prevent macular degeneration, promote urinary health, delay and reverse the aging signs, prevent neurotic disorders, improve digestion, treat constipation, boost immunity and improve eye health.

Kale

Kale is among the healthiest and nutritious vegetables. It contains high amount of dietary fiber, lutein, protein, iron, folate, potassium, calcium, magnesium and Vitamins A, C, and K. Compared to broccoli, there is seven times more beta-carotene and 10 times more lutein in kale. It also contains phytochemicals such as sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. It helps to fight cancer, protect vision, boost bone health, good for heart health, boost detoxification enzymes, prevents constipation, promote digestion, fight against cellular oxidation and prevent inflammatory related problems.

Baby Beets

Beets are available throughout the year, but young beets are freshest now. Beets are found in many colors such as yellow, deep red and orange. Compared to regular beets, baby (bunched) beets are more tender as they need less time to cook. They are naturally sweet and rich in nutrients. Leafy tops of beets are high in calcium, beta carotene and iron. They are rich in folate, dietary fiber, magnesium, vitamin C, copper, iron and phosphorus.

Beets decrease the cholesterol level, avoid birth defects, prevent some cancers, prevent cataract, stimulate liver functions, boost energy, prevent asthma symptoms, avoid macular degeneration, decrease the risk of stroke and cure fever and constipation.