The summer has arrived and people are enjoying this season of joy as COVID regulations slowly ease in California. People are eager to try new things, such as eating out at restaurants and experimenting with the latest food trends. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your summer cooking and healthy eating.
Smoothies versus juices
Many health blogs have addressed this topic, and both contain different amounts of nutrients. Do you prefer a thick, icy smoothie or a refreshing and cooling juice? We’ll look at the pros and cons for both.
Smoothies can be a delicious way to get more vitamins, and most importantly, fiber, into your diet. Fiber is a carbohydrate that has been shown to help maintain gut health and digestion. Both soluble and insoluble forms are available. According to USDA guidelines, an adequate intake of fiber for women is 25 grams and for men 38 grams. However, the average consumption among U.S. adult is only 16 grams. Whole fruits and vegetables, beans, and whole grains are all good sources. Numerous studies have demonstrated that a diet high in fiber correlates with a decreased incidence of heart diseases and can help fight insulin resistance and diabetes.
Smoothies can be easily customized and are delicious. They are popular with parents because they can sneak in some vegetables into their children’s smoothies without compromising taste. The high fiber content makes them a good meal replacement for a hot day in the summer. You should always be aware of the calories in smoothies. Smoothies are higher in calories because they contain the entire fruit or vegetable. Consult your doctor or dietician if you’re trying to lose weight or monitor a health condition to find out how smoothies can fit into your lifestyle. Smoothies can help you feel healthier by helping you achieve your nutritional goals.
Juicing is becoming more popular thanks to juice shops like Joe & the Juice, The Juice Shop and others that make colorful drinks which are perfect for Instagram. Juices, like smoothies, are full of vitamins and flavor. Juices are refreshing and hydrating. Sugar content is something to be aware of when it comes to juices. When I visit Joe & the Juice I always get the hell of a Nerve which contains elderflowers, strawberries, and banana. The nutrition information states that it contains 60 grams of carbohydrate, 53 grams of sugar, and only 3 grams fiber.
Sugary drinks can cause blood sugar to spike and insulin resistance in those who already have diabetes or obesity. To avoid this, drink your juice with a meal high in fiber that contains some protein and healthy fats. You can help your digestion by eating a combination of oatmeal and peanut or almond butter with your juice.
Juices with more vegetables are better than those that contain fruit, as fruits tend to have more sugar. Joe’s Green Tonic contains celery, kale, and cucumber and only 6 grams sugar.
Smoothies and juices can be a great way to eat healthy. This summer, try out a few juice bars or make your own.
Water
Water is also called the life force. It’s no wonder that it is considered one of the essential nutrients. You’re not drinking enough water. Healthy adults should drink at least as much water per day in milliliters, as they consume in calories. If a person eats 2,000 calories, then their minimum water intake is 2,000 milliliters or 8 1/2 cups. According to The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, women should consume approximately 11 1/2 cups of water per day, while men should consume 15 1/2 cups.
Hydration is essential to detoxify the body, eliminate waste and keep internal organs cool. Drink a cup of water every time you eat and snack to maintain a healthy fluid balance throughout the day. After eating a few small bites, take sips afterward to aid in digestion. Water can help your stomach break down food once it is there. What is there not to like about water? Water is free and an excellent alternative to sweetened drinks that are high in calories. So pour yourself a glass and enjoy.
Greens and herbs rich in antioxidants
It’s not about those chlorophyll beverages popularized by TikTok or fancy supplements, but rather the standard grocery store favorites, like parsley, mint, basil, and leafy greens. So they say, “Eating greens” will bring you closer to optimal health. Organic compounds called antioxidants can reduce damage to cells, which can lead to cancer, skin damage and many other diseases. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, such as vitamins C, A and E. These are the most common antioxidants.
One study found that mint leaves of the Mentha species possess strong antioxidant properties. In a study, it was found that the mint leaves of Mentha species have powerful antioxidant properties. In the study, was found to inhibit LDL oxidation. This can lead to inflammation and plaque buildup in the arteries. LDL is also known as low-density Lipoprotein.
You can increase your intake of antioxidants by adding herbs to food as a garnish, or to enhance the flavor. You can add your favorite herbs such as mint and basil along with cucumbers and pineapple to your water this summer for a refreshing treat. You can also use it to make a parsley chichimurri sauce to serve with tofu or tempeh “steaks”, or add it to salads, tabouleh and other dishes. Make virgin-mint mojitos by mixing mint, lime juice from freshly squeezed, sparkling water, simple syrup or agave with ice. After months of cooped-up sheltering-in place, it’s time to celebrate the “new norm” with a mojito.
