The season of spring, also referred to as springtime, is the period of the year which takes place after winter and before summer. Since it is anteceding winter, most people deem that this season is an occasion for rebirth, renewal, and revival. It is for the reason that most of the things that have been covered up during winter are regenerated – the flowers are in full bloom, the animals are more active and have started to get out of their habitats since it is no longer too cold, the streams start to flow once more due to the absence of large ice formations, and the vegetables in the garden are growing and looking so fresh. Also, it is a point in time when the temperature slowly rises; given that the axis of the earth is gradually raising its tilt on the way to the sun. In addition, this implies that the days get to be a little bit longer than those that were experienced during winter. Basically, this is a season of longer days and shorter nights.

The occurrence of spring depends upon the location of a specific country. This season happens on different times of the year in the Southern and Northern parts of the world that are having 4 seasons every year. People who live in the Northern part experience this season on the 3rd month of the year which is March until May, the 5th month. On the other hand, those who are in the Southern hemisphere get to feel this season on days starting from August until November.

As the season of spring comes, people get excited because there are a lot of things to do, given that the air is no longer cold but rather warm. Aside from outdoor activities which seem to be the first on everyone’s list, one of the most important things that should never be missed out is to eat. However, one must put in mind that it is also necessary to select the right foods to eat. Superfoods should be made as the first option. These refer to foods which are rich with the essential nutrients that are needed by the body. Moreover, these food choices are beneficial to the promotion of the health of an individual. Hence, it is only necessary to consume such foods. To add up, these are readily available especially during springtime.

The following are 5 superfoods for the spring season:

• Artichokes. Artichokes are Mediterranean plants coming from the family of the composite herbs, having the appearance like that of a thistle, and are comprised of leaves that have been divided and resemble a pinnate. One of the primary reasons that these vegetables are known to be a superfood is because they are among a few which contain very high levels of fiber. Fiber is known to be effective in lowering the levels of cholesterol and regulating the blood sugar. Another reason is that artichokes are a great source of antioxidants.

  According to a study on fresh vegetables having high antioxidant properties, artichokes rank first. Phytonutrients, specifically the Silymarin and Cynarin, are the ones that are said to be responsible for the capability of artichokes to intoxicate. Aside from the high levels of fiber and its antioxidant properties, artichokes also contain calories, potassium, magnesium, and folate. Due to its strong antioxidant properties, they have been known to help cure problems in the liver. Also, they are a good source of Vitamins C. The external appearance of artichokes is not so pleasing and attractive. However, once cracked open, you will find out that, indeed, these vegetables are more than what they look like. They offer an inviting look accompanied with various health benefits which can be gotten from there.

• Asparagus. Asparagus is a permanent garden vegetable belonging to the family of Lilies. Originally coming from the Mediterranean, it is now being cultivated in most parts of the world due to the various nutrients it offers. This vegetable is rich in Vitamin K and Iron which are responsible in performing essential tasks to keep the bones strong and in prevention of the occurrence of blood clots. Furthermore, a study showed that asparagus is capable of blocking the occurrence of cancer through its 3 components namely Selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

• Avocado. Avocadoes are thick, pear-shaped tropical fruits having green, leather-like skin. These sweet fruits were first cultivated in America and are now planted in the soil of tropical countries worldwide. Avocadoes are considered to be wonder fruits due to a great number of health benefits they offer. They contain a bunch of nutrients that are very important in one’s body. These fruit are healthy for your heart for the reason that they provide good monounsaturated fats, oleic acid, and potassium. Also, they are beneficial to the eyes since they are packed with lutein as well. In addition, they are composed of high levels of beta-sitosterol, a compound which drops the level of bad cholesterols.

• Fava Beans. Fava beans are legumes which are broad and are being grown on lean pods. These beans, also called as broad beans, are popular in the Mediterranean countries and are usually included in their cuisines. Despite its small size, fava beans are considered as superfoods because of the various nutrients it provides. They have a proportionate amount of nutritious benefits given that they are rich in fiber and iron, and contain zero bad cholesterol and have low levels of fat. Additionally, these broad beans have been also known to aid in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease through its L-dopa component.

• Spinach. Spinach is an herb which was initially, and is widely, grown in Asia. Most people believe that spring season is the best time to eat spinach. Due to the warm days brought by springtime, the natural sweetness of spinach is at its peak. Aside from its taste, it contains vitamin A and folate – both having a great impact on the improvement of one’s immune system and in warding off allergens in the body. In addition, spinach is beneficial to the eyes since it has components, lutein and zeaxanthin, which are responsible in promoting good eyesight. Furthermore, they are comprised of vitamins A, C, K, along with the nutrients such as magnesium, folate, iron, and manganese.

Sources
naturalhomeandgarden.com
care2.com
mensfitness.com