Phytonutrients

The IFM Phytonutrient Spectrum – Comprehensive Guide has some great ideas about how to diversify your diet and consume a broader range of nutrients, like that cooking carrots with a little olive oil can make the carotenoids more bioavailable.  I love the idea that eating green leafy vegetables every day slows aging by 11 years.  No matter what age you are, thinking about what it was like to be 11 years younger is probably pretty motivating, especially if even green tea, herbs, or cucumbers count as greens.  Eating blueberries every day could help reduce the joint pain of arthritis. And while everyone knows that fruits and vegetables are good for you, how many people know that 7-8 servings of fruits and vegetables a day can improve your psychological health?  It’s so easy to turn to convenience foods when we’re extra busy or under stress, but these times may be even more important to prioritize fruits and veggies to keep your spirits up while you’re getting through it. 

Reference:

The Institute for Functional Medicine. Phytonutrient Spectrum – Comprehensive Guide, Version 7. Copyright 2022 The Institute for Functional Medicine.