Are you feeling the winter blues?

Many people find it hard to maintain a positive attitude during winter months. The sun makes rare appearances and we’re not spending as much time outside which can lead to vitamin D deficiencies. We’re also not as physically active during colder months. Skiing and snowboarding can be fun, but not everyone lives in the mountains. Then there’s the constant threat of catching the flu or a cold. It’s enough to bring anyone down.

Fighting the winter blues is easier than you think. While a trip to Fiji would be great, it’s probably not going to happen. So what can you do?  A recent study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found people who ate more fruits and vegetables were happier than those who didn’t. As a part of the study, people filled out a daily food journal and described their mood. Those who ate more fruits and vegetables had better moods the following day as well showing the positive long term effects of their choices.

How can you work extra fruits and vegetables into your diet? Here are a few simple tips to weave healthy choices throughout your day.

  • Replace your morning oatmeal or boring cereal with a fruit smoothie. Add protein powder or peanut butter to make it a complete meal to fuel your day.
  • Swap out junk food for winter citrus like clementines. They’re perfect to grab on the go and look great sitting in a bowl on the table.
  • Add drained and rinsed Randall Beans to lunchtime salads. The protein and fiber is good for your health and your mood.
  • Make a white bean dip and serve with veggies instead of a bag of potato chips with sour cream dip to eat while watching TV.

Eating more fruits and vegetables won’t bring spring any sooner, but it’s good for your general health and will put you in a better mood.

Try some of our favorite bean recipes like White Chicken Chili with Great Northern Beans, Family Ham & Beans or Southwest Black Bean & Quinoa Salad for dinner tonight!

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