With the arrival of spring, the body becomes weaker, and most of us experience general fatigue, accompanied by physical weakness and an inability to concentrate.
Nutritionists say that all these states occur due to a lack of vitamins and minerals in the body. Moreover, the absence of an organized lifestyle, which includes physical exercise and a diversified diet, exacerbates the feeling of lethargy.
Nutrition specialists emphasize that spring foods replenish antioxidant reserves and strengthen the immune system. Doctors recommend including at least one of these seasonal foods in our daily diet to prevent the onset of asthenia, anemia, and depression.
Furthermore, spring greens fortify the body, help eliminate toxins accumulated during winter, and reduce cholesterol levels. According to specialists, these foods are especially recommended for those looking to lose weight, as they accelerate the fat-burning process without affecting health.
Spinach Protects Vision
Spinach is rich in iron, folic acid, and calcium, says nutritionist Mihaela Bilic. Contrary to popular belief, iron absorption is very low because it is combined with oxalic acid, remaining unabsorbed and accelerating slow intestinal transit, adds the specialist. People who regularly consume spinach have a lower risk of cataracts, as the food contains lutein, a substance that protects the proteins of the lens, notes Dr. Bilic.
Green Lettuce Has Sedative Properties
Green lettuce is rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is diuretic, alleviates digestive issues, and its fiber and antioxidant content reduces the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, due to the presence of white latex in the lettuce stems, this food has sedative properties, explains the nutritionist.
Moreover, lettuce leaves are low in calories and have a high content of beneficial minerals and vitamins for the body.
Radish, the Queen of Antioxidants
Radish is another star food of this season. Nutritionists say that this vegetable has a high antioxidant content, making it an ally against cancer. Specialists recommend this food in weight loss diets, as it is low in calories, and its high water content is an additional benefit for those on a diet.
Radish is recommended for people with sensitive skin, as it contains vitamin C, phosphorus, zinc, and some B vitamins, say nutritionists.
Nettles Aid Detoxification
Nettles contain a large number of amino acids, vitamins A, B2, C, and K, chlorophyll, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and silicon, as well as protein substances and folic acid.
Specialists say that they vitaminize and remineralize the body, eliminate anemia, purify the blood with a detoxifying effect, and have beneficial effects for people suffering from bronchitis or asthma, conditions commonly encountered during this period.
Spinach and nettles should not be cooked for more than three to four minutes, as otherwise, the body will not benefit from the nutritional qualities offered by these foods, concludes Dr. Bilic.
