Blog & Food Journal

        Today is Friday which means we have a Monday coming up. I love Mondays, not only is it the beginning of a new week, it’s  such a good day to start something new. So I have a challenge for you. (and me)

         I have been reading "Thrive, the vegan nutrition guide to optimal performance in sports and life" by Brendan Brazier.   Thrive is a MUST READ according to T. Colin Campbell. I couldn't agree more. I found this book when I was Google searching nutrition and fitness. After reading it, I have recommended this book to many people, athlete and non-athlete alike. 

         In the book he talks about so many things. I like to drive in and just do it all, that can get overwhelming and make it a challenge to stick with. So this week I am going to take my newbie step into new leafy greens. I am challenging you to join me.

In Thrive Brendan states, “Dark leafy green are a rich source of chlorophyll, important in offsetting stress and alkalizing the body.  Chlorophyll also cleanses and oxygenates the blood, making it and essential "modern world" food and a true performance enhancer.  Having more oxygen available in the blood translates to better endurance and an overall reduction in fatigue."

 A reduction in fatigue….. Isn't that something we all want? I can't even count the amount of times I hear others say, I am just so tired.  If eating more greens is going to improve that,  then it’s worth a shot right? Let's do it!

He continues, "In their raw state, chlorophyll-containing plants possess and abundance of live enzymes that promote quick rejuvenation of our cells. The consumption of chlorophyll-rich, leafy greens vegetables combined with moderate exercise is the best way to create a biologically YOUNGER BODY"

Who wants that?? I do, I do! I am so excited about this book.  I am baby stepping my way younger and healthier. Starting Monday, of course!   (it gives me the weekend to grocery shop).  I've been stuck in my leafy green rut, using mostly spinach and kale. I am ready to branch out.

Here is a list of more common leafy green, by more common, I mean available at stores, not more common because I use them or even know what some look like.)

-Beet greens - I had these at a vegan restaurant- YUM!

-Butter lettuce

-Collards - sometimes I throw a couple of leaves into my smoothie

-Dandelion greens

-Mustard greens- I tried throwing a couple of these leaves into my smoothie and WHOA gross!! I do NOT recommend it! Ha! (I would love some suggestions)

-Red leaf lettuce

-Swiss Chard

Challenge: Pick two and use them daily this week. You can come up with your own as well. Please feel free to share your ideas.

Good luck, have fun with it, enjoy becoming biologically younger!