Growth: The Top 5 Foods You Should Be Eating More Of And Why!

Each new Spring I take a moment to remind myself to focus on growth. As the natural world begins to change and flourish, I ask myself, what am I doing to make sure I'm growing, as a person? There are a lot of elements that go into this: volunteering more, being kind and positive, tackling new challenges, and setting aside time to be creative...And then there's food. Food plays a huge role in how we feel day to day, how much energy we have to achieve our goals, and how capable we feel of giving back to the people around us. So this season, with growth in mind, I've put together a list of 5 foods I want to eat more of this Spring, because growth starts with the smallest choices, just as a flower begins with a seed!​

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1. Beets: Beets have an incredibly high concentration of the B Vitamin known as folate. Although raw beets can look unappetizing on the outside, sliced or chopped up in a salad they become a crowd pleaser!
2. Kiwi: Rich in vitamin C, kiwis are a great boost to your immune system! Not only that, but they provide important enzymes that boost the production of cartilage and muscle, which is great for athletes. Recent studies have also indicated that eating a Kiwi within a few hours of bedtime can actually help you sleep! Kiwis are a versatile fruit, and they can be eaten raw or blended into smoothies.
3. Chickpeas/Garbanzos: If you're looking for a healthy and quick energy boost, this is the food for you! One cup of chickpeas has the power to increase your energy and get you through the rest of your long day. Not only that, but they are packed with vital nutrients and low on things like sodium and fat, which makes them an overall great choice for any meal.
4. Spices & Herbs: Spices and herbs all have different effects on the body, but the one thing that they all have in common is that they support the body! Spices like cinnamon help to control blood sugar and cholesterol, while herbs like Turmeric are a great anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer. Have fun with your different spices/herbs and make your food extra healthy and delicious!
5. Arugula & Bitter Greens: A great substitute for spinach, Arugula is packed in iron and copper. As summer approaches, make sure to pick up Arugula at your local supermarket. Not only is it a natural hydrator, but its peppery taste makes it a natural cooler to the body, which is perfect for those hot days approaching! Plus, the entire bitter greens family helps feed the good bacteria in your microbiome. 

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