With the Christmas season upon us and a multitude of tempting “sweet treats” on offer, starting the season with some healthy recommendations can help minimize the guilt of overindulgence! It’s natural to gravitate toward visually appealing foods, but it’s important to balance those choices with nutritional value.
How to Choose Fruits and Vegetables That Enhance Health and Beauty
Many fruits and vegetables are often overlooked despite their incredible health benefits. We tend to stick to our usual grocery lists, unintentionally ignoring foods that deserve a place in our diets. Here’s a look at some fruits and vegetables, categorized by their vibrant colors and their associated health benefits:
Orange and Red
Citrus fruits like oranges and naartjies, as well as berries, watermelon, guavas, butternut, and carrots, fall into this category. These orange and red-colored foods are believed to increase oxygenation in the body, enhancing overall vitality.
Purple
From deep-hued berries to eggplant (also known as aubergine) and plums, purple fruits and vegetables offer powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They can help repair skin damage caused by excessive sun exposure and, in some cases, provide relief for individuals with cancer or neurological disorders.
Different pigments and phytonutrients in fruits and vegetables contribute to better health and aid in eliminating toxins from the body.
Green
Green is indispensable! Seasonal delights like avocado pears are rich in healthy fats and vitamins that protect the heart and help regulate blood pressure.
Juices for Kids
Juices derived from fruits and vegetables are a blessing for parents, especially when children are hesitant to eat their greens at dinner.
Lemons
Though not a common craving, lemons offer a range of nutrients that complement sweeter fruits and vegetables. Their citric acid enhances health, and diluted lemon juice is an effective gargle for soothing sore throats.
Fruits in Beauty Culture
In recent years, fruits have made their way into the beauty industry. Matsimela’s Summer Lemon Verbena range showcases this trend with products crafted using pure lemon oil and natural alpha hydroxy acids for gentle exfoliation. The verbena extract, derived from a lush green herb, combines with lemon to create a refreshing aroma that’s also beneficial for the skin.
Thoughtful Christmas Gifts
If you’re on the hunt for unique Christmas gifts, Matsimela’s Summer Lemon Verbena range is an excellent choice. The easy-to-use pump bottles for exfoliating hand and body cream and body wash, along with a glycerine soap bar, make for delightful and thoughtful gifts that care for both hands and body.