4 Simple And Delicious Ways to Celebrate National Nutrition Month

Hi everyone! March is National Nutrition Month, so why not make this the month you focus on your plate... and what it can do for your health?! By thinking of the word "nutrition" as a positive, inspiring way to eat that will bring you energy and boost your metabolism, you can really embrace foods that will give back to you in so many ways! Below are my four favorite foods that everyone over the age of 50 should be eating to maximize what you get out of your plate - give them a try!

Salmon. When you choose salmon, you are already headed in the right direction when it comes to a healthy, nutrient-filled meal! Salmon is a good source of protein and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation, promote heart and brain health, address stress and anxiety and so much more. I prefer fresh wild-caught salmon, because it is a less fatty fish with more omega-3s, but canned wild-caught salmon is a great alternative, and is a cost-effective way to get more of this yummy fish into your diet!

Beans. The good news is that the more you add in this protein-rich, low-fat, fiber-filled food to your diet, the less side effects you will feel. And that is good news because beans (and lentils!) are a win-win anyway you look at them! They are an inexpensive way to add fiber, protein, folic acid, magnesium and iron to your diet, with little to no cholesterol, fat and trans fats. Plus, they are versatile, so you can use them out of the can and into salads and soups, swap into traditional meals to make them "meatless," and even use them in baked goods since their taste is so neutral. Make a pledge to yourself to add more beans into your diet this month!

Spinach. Many of us are lucky to be able to find fresh spinach at our local stores, but even if you choose frozen, spinach is a winner every time. The reasons to eat spinach (aside from its amazing taste!) are numerous: It helps flush free radicals from your body; loads you up on iron and potassium; has anti-inflammatory properties; is good for your eyes, bones and nervous system; and so much more. You can cook it fresh with some chopped garlic in olive oil, use it as a base for salads, or add frozen spinach to soups, stews and casseroles. Versatile and oh so healthy!

Berries. These healthy gems can be expensive, so don't overlook frozen berries! Frozen berries offer up the same benefits as fresh, at a fraction of the price. Berries are high in antioxidants, good for gut health, good for your heart and skin, and taste amazing! I like to add frozen berries to my morning oatmeal, as they "cook" in the heat and cool down the classic breakfast cereal at the same time. But you can also use frozen berries in smoothies, and fresh ones are delicious on salads or yogurt. Anyway you choose them, berries are a great addition to Nutrition Month!

Let's make a pledge TOGETHER to add more of these healthy foods to our diet this month. Share your fave recipes or tips on my Facebook and Instagram, and remember that if you don't have time to get healthy, delicious foods in your daily meals, I have you covered, with my Denise Austin Prepared Meal Delivery! Simple meals that are healthy, delicious, and follow the Mediterranean Diet philosophy. Learn more!

Let's live EVER BETTER™ - together!

Denise