Comfort food is out and lighter fare is in. Salad is an ideal meal option as we head into the warmer days with a desire for more vibrancy from within. Lettuce is suitable for all body types most likely because it traces so far back to our ancestral roots (2,500 years to be exact). It has the ability to aid the digestive process and reduce the risk of strokes, cataracts, and heart disease. Even those suffering from insomnia will benefit from regular lettuce consumption.Sprucing up your salad by swapping out iceberg can truly make a difference in both taste and wellness. The darker green lettuces will generally provide you with optimal nourishment. In fact, romaine and watercress contain up to seven times more beta-carotene than iceberg. Calcium and magnesium are also two key nutrients that are increased. By rotating all lettuces regularly, you will provide yourself with the diet of champions. Some good ones to try are: arugula, bok choy, endive, romaine, watercress, and spinach. Be sure to add quality protein and fat to any salad so that your overall energy remains steady until your next meal. Chewing the lettuce thoroughly will also aid digestion and help to create satiety.
with Rosemary-Mustard Dressing
Serves 6
1 bunch arugula
1 bunch watercress
1 small red onion
1 Belgian endive
Dressing:
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 tablespoons umeboshi vinegar
½ teaspoon whole-grain mustard
1 teaspoon crumbled dried rosemary
Cut or tear the arugula into bite-sized pieces. Remove tough stems from the watercress. Arrange the greens attractively on a platter. Thinly slice the onion crosswise and arrange the rings on top of the greens. Separate the endive leaves and arrange them in spokes from the center of the platter.
To make the dressing: Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or screw-top jar and whisk or shake to blend well. Pour evenly over the salad just before serving.
Source: The Natural Gourmet
Alison is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (affiliated with Columbia University) and a Masters Degree candidate in Human Nutrition. She is certified by the Association of Drugless Practitioners and has a private practice in Fairfield County.
Alison empowers individuals to become the best version of themselves through exceptional nutrition and health counseling. With a passion for and extensive knowledge in healthy living and delicious whole foods, Alison works closely with her clients guiding them to a happier, healthier way of life. Examples of client results include optimized anti-aging protocol, strengthened immune system, lowered cholesterol, increased energy and performance, weight loss/gain, stress reduction, pain elimination and improved sleep,
Her nutritional insights, "Healthy Bite," will be featured regularly in future issues of Aetherial Living.
If you enjoy this article, or would like to know more about Alison, please drop her a comment at alison@aetheriaspa.com
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