Wellness Coordinator Amanda Lynch wanted to incorporate a delicious treat for employees to celebrate National Nutrition Month, but wanted to make sure and have a quick, easy, and tasteful option for folks during their day. What better way to do that than fruit skewers. We all know that sometimes we are not able to get our daily amounts of fruits and vegetables, however when they are in front of us, it is too hard to pass up. Included with the skewers Lynch educated employees on some different ways to enjoy fruits and vegetables. Employees loved the treat and said it made them think of summer, which hopefully will be on its way soon! Here are her top 5 ways to enjoy more fruits and vegetables!
1.) Variety is key when choosing vegetables for your pizza toppings, and also is a great way to get your helpings. When making your homemade pizzas adding ingredients such as; spinach, green peppers. tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, or yellow squash are just a few options to consider.
2.) Mix up breakfast with a smoothie. This will be a great way to enjoy a good helping of both fruits and vegetables in your meal. Throw in strawberries, a banana, milk, and a handful for spinach just for starters to enjoy the healthy benefits of fruits and veggies.
3.) Add colorful vegetable kabobs packed with tomatoes, green and red peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a powerful punch to any grilled meal.
4.) Add grated, shredded, or chopped vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and carrots to lasagna, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, pasta sauce, and rice dishes.
5.) Make fruit your dessert. Slice a banana lengthwise and top with a scoop of low fat frozen yogurt. Sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped nuts for an added bonus too!
Amanda Lynch, Wellness Coordinator
Western Home Communities