It is important to eat fruits and vegetables because they are rich in vitamins, minerals and because eating them reduces the risk of developing heart disease. Many know this but tell me that they hate vegetables so it is difficult to have them daily in their meals. If you are one of those people, here are some tips!
Tip #1- Try different cooking methods
Very often people are under the impression that eating vegetables must mean eating a lot of salad and they are surprised to learn that it is possible to eat a lot of vegetables without ever eating a salad. Indeed, whether the vegetable is raw or cooked, sliced or pureed, it still counts as a vegetable.
Try the same vegetable (or different vegetables) raw with or without sauce, pan-fried, oven-roasted, etc. You will see that the taste will not be the same. For example, I don't like raw mushrooms but once cooked in a pan, I love them!
Tip #2- Try something new
The vegetables on your plate don't have to be the "classic" vegetables if you don't like them (ex. cucumber, tomato, lettuce, carrots, spinach, etc.). Don't be afraid to try vegetables you've never tasted before (ex. parsnips, fiddleheads, okra, chayote, etc.). You might just discover your new favorite vegetable.
Tip #3- Integrate vegetables discreetly
If you shudder at the sight of vegetables, it is still possible to eat them without having to look at them. Add them to your smoothies, sauces or soups. And yes, even when they are not visible, they still count.
P.S. Remember that all you need is one vegetable per meal (it is not essential to have a complicated recipe with 5 different vegetables).
N.B. This text contains general information and cannot replace individualized advice and treatment from your doctor and healthcare professionals.
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