Are you looking to enjoy fresh and nutritious produce throughout the year? You'll be happy to know that the winter season offers plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we'll explore the produce available during winter months, why you should buy local, seasonal produce, how to find these foods, and the many health benefits of consuming them.
Winter Fruit and Veggies Winter varieties of fruits and vegetables include apples, pears, citrus fruits, kiwi, grapes, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and potatoes. These foods are grown in the colder months of fall and winter, and although some are available year-round, you'll find the best quality when they're freshly harvested during the winter season.
To discover what's in season, check online or grocery store flyers. Most stores list the produce available and when it will be sold. Visiting local farmers' markets is also a great way to find fresh, local produce in season, which can be more affordable than buying from a grocery store.
Winter seasonal fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that promote good health. Here are a few winter produce options and their health benefits:
Winter seasonal vegetables are great sources of vitamins A, C, and K, and folate, as well as minerals like potassium and fiber. Buying local produce whenever possible ensures that it has been grown in the right conditions. Grounding via Winter Root Vegetables can also help you connect with the earth and is especially beneficial during the winter months.
If you won't be consuming your winter fruits and veggies right away, freeze them as soon as possible after being harvested to lock in their nutrients and flavor. You can also store winter produce in the fridge or at room temperature. Here are some tips for storing winter fruits and vegetables:
Take advantage of the winter season to experiment with seasonal produce that may not be as readily available during other times of the year. Winter fruits and vegetables are abundant in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, and incorporating them into your diet can provide you with an extra energy boost during the colder months.
]]>Do you frequently experience bloating and discomfort after eating? Do certain foods seem to give you digestive problems? If so, incorporating digestion shots into your daily routine might be beneficial. In this article, we'll discuss three possible advantages of consuming digestion shots regularly.
Digestion shots are concentrated probiotic beverages created to enhance your digestive health. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that, according to some research, may contribute to a healthy gut, potentially leading to improved digestion, weight management, and even skincare (NCBI). Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most commonly used probiotics in digestion shots.
Digestion shots typically consist of a liquid base like water or juice, to which probiotics are added and thoroughly mixed. Additional ingredients such as ginger, turmeric, or raw pressed juice can be included for extra flavor and health benefits.
Here are a few possible advantages of regularly consuming digestion shots:
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption Some studies suggest that probiotics can help your body absorb more nutrients from food by breaking down food in your gut, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients (NCBI).
Improved Gut Health Probiotic supplementation has been shown in some research to reduce inflammation in the gut, a major contributor to health issues such as high blood sugar, heart disease, blood disorders, chronic constipation, and diabetes (NCBI). Probiotics may also help increase the production of short-chain fatty acids, which some studies suggest offer various health benefits, including weight management and improved gut health (Harvard Health Publishing).
Support for Overall Health Probiotics are also thought to help with other aspects of overall health, including mood and skin improvement. Some research has indicated that probiotics may help treat acne and eczema (Cleveland Clinic).
You'll need a liquid base, a probiotic supplement, and any additional ingredients you prefer.
Here's a simple recipe to get started:
Ingredients:
• ½ cup of water
• ¼ cup raw pressed juice (e.g., pineapple, orange, apple, beet, or carrot)
Note: A juicer will likely be necessary for this step.
• ½ teaspoon probiotic supplement
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients and enjoy. Feel free to add other ingredients like turmeric or raw honey for extra flavor and health benefits. For optimal results, consume digestion shots on an empty stomach, either first thing in the morning or before bedtime.
With various probiotic supplements on the market, it's essential to select a high-quality product containing diverse bacterial strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
A healthy gut contributes to a stronger immune system, according to scientific research. Consider incorporating both wellness shots, rich in vitamins and minerals, and digestive shots, made with probiotic bacteria, into your daily routine. This combination may not only make you feel better but also significantly benefit your overall health.
Maintaining gut health is crucial, as everything we consume is ultimately broken down and potentially distributed throughout the body as nutrients. A healthy gut relies on sufficient amounts of beneficial bacteria and immune cells to ward off infections and aid in the digestion of high-fiber foods.
Some studies note:
• 75% of our immune system resides in the gut (UCLA Health).
• The gastrointestinal tract is home to over 500 species of bacteria, both good and bad (NCBI).
• The WHO/FAO defines probiotics as "live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host."
• Antibiotics can kill not only harmful bacteria but also the beneficial bacteria our gut needs for optimal health, potentially causing side effects like diarrhea, yeast overgrowth (candida), and irritable bowel syndrome (NCBI).
Regularly drinking digestion shots can potentially increase beneficial bacteria. They are not only tasty and refreshing but also deliver a potent probiotic boost.
Additionally, remember to stay hydrated and make healthy food choices, both of which can significantly impact your gut biome.
Do you enjoy digestion shots? What are your favorite ingredients to include? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Please consult a healthcare professional before consuming any digestion shot, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
Explore our other blog posts for more tips on enhancing your health.
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