This is the
most power-packed combination of nutrients your body requires for good health.
Fruits, vegetables, and herbs provide sufficient quantities of water, vitamin,
fibers, complex carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals. The fat content of all
fruits and vegetables is very low, which is a boon for weight-watchers and the
obese. Markets are full of fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs all the year
round. Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your fruits and
veggies:
Purchasing tips:
Always buy
fresh spices, herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Anything that is bought frozen,
dried or canned loses some of its nutritive value, so always prefer fresh products.
Organically
grown vegetables and fruit are in demand today as their cultivation involves no
synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or other chemicals. This definitely increases
the price of the products. However, if you can afford organic veggies, do
inquire about the state regulations and on what basis the item has been labeled
organic. Keep in mind that organic produce is by and large smaller than
inorganically grown food.
Vitamins and
minerals are lost when the product is exposed to air, sun, light, moisture,
heat, acids and metals. This means that the nutritional value starts to decline
immediately after harvesting, and this loss continues until the product is
consumed.
Use containers
that minimize moisture loss to store all greens, herbs and other products that
tend to lose their moisture rapidly. No water should collect at the bottom of
the storage containers.
Preparation
tips:
Vegetables and
fruit should be rinsed, trimmed, peeled and sliced as near to the time of
cooking as is practical.
Do not let
vegetables stand in water just before cooking.
Cook them only
in amounts that can be consumed at one meal. This will ensure that they remain
fresh and retain their nutrients.
Cook them
quickly and add a little water as possible
By following
these tips, you will extract the maximum benefit from your fruits and veggies.
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