28 Day Challenge: Week Three

Whew! You’ve survived another week. We hope we’ve convinced you that a healthier lifestyle is attainable, despite how intimidating it might seem at first. Remember to keep incorporating those small challenges you’ve already made as you continue on into Week 3 of the 28 day challenge! (For more 28 Day Challenge info, click here).

This week, the dietitians challenge you to simply eat more plants. That may sound easy, but did you know that the current recommendations are to fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal? According to the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Executive Summary, over 80% of Americans eat below the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. It's probably safe to say, we could all use a little bit more plant foods in our lives. Now, we've only mentioned fruits and vegetables, but eating more plants also includes things like legumes and whole grains.

So, why is eating plants so good for us? Plants are living organisms that contain properties designed to help protect them from predators and the environment. These properties, called antioxidants, function the same way in our bodies - they protect us from developing chronic disease. Antioxidants are scavengers of the by-product of oxidation, free-radicals, and help reduce the number of these harmful substances in the body. There are several different types of antioxidants, each with a different benefit and protective property that fight against an array of chronic diseases. Aside from being a great source of powerful antioxidants, plants also offer an array of vitamin and mineral compositions that all uniquely function to help maintain equilibrium in the body. There is so much more to be said about the benefits of eating plants, but remember, we’re keeping it simple!

So at your next trip to Market Street, try picking out a few new fruits or vegetables in the produce department like the new Pazzazz apples or purple potatoes. Also try a new variety of whole grains like quinoa or farro. Explore a new way to use your favorite canned beans. And don’t forget that frozen is just as good of an option too! Good luck with Week 3 of the 28 Day Challenge.

P.S.- Make sure you've entered to win one up to $500 in prizes and don't forget to spread the "health" by sharing your 28 Day Challenge commitment with friends. For each friend that clicks on your post and enters, you'll score an extra entry toward our $500 grand prize drawing! Enter or share your entry by clicking here. Good luck!