This week, we're focusing on the ONE Springtime secret for a healthy mood that also happens to nourish and strengthen the body all the way down to a molecular level. Stock your kitchen with this deadly weapon against infection, mood disorders, energy levels, anxiety, and depression!
It's citrus!
Citrus contain bioflavanoids that react positively during an infection or to heal damaged cells. Their activity in the body promotes anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and circulation interactions. In other words, citrus fruits work hard to:
- Heal the body from injuries as small as a paper cut to as severe as surgery
- Reduce inflammation in the body and prevent disease formation
- Act as protection against allergens, changing histamine responses
- Eradicate free radical cells in the body
- Improve capillary health, regulating blood pressure naturally
Bright Citrus Dissolves Dark Depression
Aromatherapy is a new practice that is gaining speed in the medical and scientific industries because of it's powerful effects on the mind. In a recent study published in The Flavour Journal, citrus aromas successfully increased physical activity, reduced negative emotions, and affected food choices toward healthier foods!
Anxiety and depression are easily affected by a lack of exercise and poor mood. Try breathing deeply when you squeeze that lemon wedge into your water and see how you feel! It's hard to not feel a smile growing after smelling such uplifting and bright scents!
Grapefruit for a Healthy Waistline
One of the greatest sources of stress for anyone heading into the Summer season is looking and feeling their best physically to truly enjoy the season of bathing suits and shorts. Grapefruits, and other sources of vitamin C, have been shown repeatedly to induce a fat burning state in the body. One study found that by consuming grapefruit, without any change to diet, increased weight loss by over 270%! Metabolism is unique to each person, but by supplementing with citrus fruits you can counteract the effects of any environment with nourishing vitamins and minerals!
Munch on this easy citrus fruit salad to get Summer ready and feel fantastic!
Makes 2-4 servings
- 1 grapefruit, cut and sectioned
- 2 oranges, peeled and sectioned
- 2 pomegranates (seeded)
- Juice of one lemon
- Ribboned mint leaves (optional)
Combine all sectioned fruits and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl. Add the lemon juice and toss lightly to distribute. Garnish with ribboned mint leaves if desired. Serve with any healthy meal or alone as a nutritious snack!