Longer nights means you're tempted to slouch more, sit more and seek the solace of artificial sunshine. But, before you buy a new sportscar out of boredom and winter fatigue, look to your fridge for the real pick me up. Consumption of fruits and vegetables all winter, particularly those that ripen only during winter, is the key to staying well balanced and happily adjusted through the darkest months.
One guava contains 5 grams of fiber, 10% of recommended daily Vitamin A and B6 and a whopping 220% of your recommended daily Vitamin C. Use in preserves, pies, sorbets, sauces or juices for a strawberry like boost.
One kiwi contains 3 grams of fiber and 76% of the daily recommended amount for Vitamin C. Add a beautiful green burst to your peanut butter or any salad.
Four kumquats contain 5 grams of fiber and 38% of the recommended daily dose of Vitamin C. Eat raw, peel and all for a wonderful taste surprise or make a marmalade or relish or use with game, meats and fish.
One Asian pear contains 4 grams of fiber and almost 10% of recommended daily Vitamin C. Toss into your salad, raw, baked or sauteed for a zip of happiness.
One half cup of uncooked cranberries contains 2 grams of fiber and 9% of the recommended daily Vitamin C. Pies, crisps, muffins, puddings, jams and sauces all benefit from this tart sensation.
Pears, tangerines and oranges are available all winter. Make marinades, eat with cheese or as part of your favorite recipe for a blues-free season. And don't forget the quintessential limes and lemons.
One cup of raw snap green beans contains 4 grams of fiber, 11% of the daily recommended dose of Vitamin A, B12, and folic acid and 24% of daily recommended Vitamin C. Steam, stir fry or boil until they're just tender crisp. Add sea salt, and you'll never look at a potato chip the same way again.
One cup of uncooked rutabagas contain 3.5 grams of fiber, supply 12% of the recommended daily dose of magnesium, potassium, Vitamins A, B1, and B6 while providing 47% of the daily Vitamin C and .1 gram of plant based omega 3 fatty acids. Eat raw or roasted for best results.
Sweet potatos aka yams are carb heaven, but they also provide 4 grams of fiber, 18% of the daily recommended dose of B2, 26% of B6, 40% of Vitamin C and 380% of Vitamin A. That's tempting. Turn these into baked chips or a delicious stir fry or as colorful substitute for the lifeless spud.
Persimmon, pomegranate and quince tend to disappear after December, but while you have them, add color and the smell of happiness to your life.
