Now that the holiday season is over and (hopefully) all of the decadent holiday food went with it, it’s the right time to look at new options for your diet!
1. Pomegranates
Naturally or in juice form, pomegranates are perfect for lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol. They have also been known to improve blood flow to the heart, especially in people with myocardial ischemia which causes the arteries to the heart to be blocked and reduces oxygen in the blood.
2. Dark Leafy Greens: Kale, Chard, Collards
Tasty winter vegetables such as kale, chard, and collards are perfect for almost any dish. These leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Don’t enjoy the taste of kale? A touch of frost on the leaves can remove some of the bitterness.
3. Citrus: Lemons, Limes, Oranges, Grapefruits
Lemons, limes, and oranges—oh my! In the winter, these can provide a much needed kick to vitamin C deficiency. One medium orange can deliver 100 percent of your daily dose of vitamin C! Another benefit to eating citrus: they can lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and enhance “good” HDL cholesterol.
4. Potatoes
An excellent source of vitamins C and B6, potatoes are versatile and can provide much needed folate to anyone’s diet. For an extra boost of anthocyanins, try purple potatoes! Anthocyanins are antioxidants that are shown to reduce the risk of developing some cancers and heart disease.
5. Winter Squash
Did you know that one cup of cooked winter squash has very few calories—around 80—but is high in vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate? There are so many options to choose from, how can you only have one? Try butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash to make a truly classic dish for your family tonight!