Boost energy levels and immunity with seasonal superfoods

Is this cold winter weather having an effect on your energy level? “Winter Tiredness” is a real condition, and its’s due to the limited amount of sunlight! Additionally, winter is prime time for colds and the flu, so your immune system is working in overdrive to keep you healthy. However, anyone can boost their overall wellness and energy levels just by introducing different veggies into their diet. There are plenty of seasonal nutrient-dense veggies available right now to help you do just that!

Winter veggies like beets, parsnips, jicama, and sweet potatoes are rich in energy-boosting vitamins and immunity building antioxidants.

Beets

Rich in natural nitrates, beets are a great source of energy as they deliver more oxygen and nutrients into the bloodstream. Perfect for weight management, beets are high in fiber and potassium while supplying antioxidants.  Best of all, although we can find beets year round, they’re at their best in the fall months.

Try It: Roast beets until they are tender and juicy, then mix them into a salad of baby greens topped with a drizzle of lemon and olive oil.

Parsnips

It might be hard to believe, but parsnips are actually more nutritious than carrots!  As cousins, their flavor profile is similar making parsnips a great alternative, but unlike carrots, parsnips boast a high concentration of folate and potassium, both integral in keeping our bones, cells and muscles running efficiently.

Try it:  Roast parsnips and sprinkle with Thyme and maple syrup for an energizing and sweet side dish.

Jicama

One of the best sources of dietary fiber, helping with lower cholesterol and weight loss, jicama is full of health boosting vitamins, minerals and nutrients. A great source of iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium, it helps boost energy levels.

Try It: Add chopped jicama to your salads for nice and refreshing crunch.

Sweet Potatoes

It might be hard to believe that these orange beauties are actually some of the most nutritious vegetables around!  High in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, sweet potatoes are best known for being a great source of Vitamins A and C, not to mention their high fiber content.

Try It: Boil and mash them with a teaspoon of olive oil and a drizzle of apple honey for a deliciously sweet treat.