One of the simplest approaches to eating a well-balanced and healthy diet is to eat real food. As a family dentist and wellness advocate in Hollywood, Florida, we truly believe health and wellness starts in the mouth. We are very fortunate to live in Florida where an abundance of fresh produce is grown in our state and throughout the year. Eating fresh locally-sourced food not only benefits your body, but also the environment. A good rule of thumb is if you can't pronounce the ingredients, don't eat it. In honor of National Nutrition Month at Parker Dentistry Facial Rejuvenation and Wellness, we want to inspire you to eat more Florida fruits and vegetables!
You might be surprised to learn how many different fruits and vegetables are grown in Florida soil. Here's a list of the most common ones:
Avocados, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, cauliflower, celery, eggplant, grapefruit, guava, Key limes, lettuce, mangoes, mushrooms, oranges, papayas, passionfruit, potatoes, radishes, spinach, squash, strawberries, corn, tomatoes, and watermelon.
The food choices that we make every day play a major role in the quality of our health. It is far easier to maintain our health than it is to recover it. Diet is one of the components of our life that we have the most control over. We have total control over what we eat. What we eat affects every single part of our bodies, on the inside and on the outside. All of the fruits and vegetables that are grown in Florida have incredible health benefits and are easily accessible and affordable to everyone who lives here. Healthcare is expensive; healthy eating doesn't have to be.
If you need a bit more convincing, check out the nutrients and benefits some of Florida's favorite fruits and vegetables can offer you.
Avocados are high in vitamins and nutrients B2, B3, B5, B6, C, E, K, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, and oleic acid (helps reduce inflammation). Avocados actually help your body absorb nutrients from other plant-based foods. They are also loaded with antioxidants, which support your immune system and anti-aging defenses.
Carrots can help prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure, boost immunity, aid in digestion, prevent cancer, improve eyesight, improve oral health, and control diabetes.
Oranges, Florida's most famous fruit, is jam packed with vitamin C. Like carrots, oranges can help strengthen your immune system, promote heart health, prevent certain types of cancer, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and even make your skin glow.
Tomatoes are one of the main exports in Florida. This juicy fruit helps fight early signs of aging, aids your liver and kidneys in detoxifying your body, stimulates circulation, improves digestion, and even lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease.
You can probably imagine how amazing all of the other fruits and vegetables on the above list are for you based on how nutrient-packed and powerful these four fruits and vegetables are. Your diet and health are directly linked. The better you eat, the better you will feel. Try checking out a local farmer's market in your area and load up on Florida's finest bounty; your body will thank you.