If you’re looking to elevate your meals with nutritional powerhouses, look no further. We spoke with Megan Dopp, RD, a registered dietitian at Forbes Nutritional Consulting who incorporates lifestyle, prevention, nutrition, and natural therapies while treating her patients. Here, she provides her secrets to slipping more plant-based nutrients in your diet without whipping up an elaborate meal. Below, find four hacks that will not only satisfy your taste buds, but leave you feeling great!
1. Add chlorella or spirulina your smoothie.
It takes less than a second and the amount of nutrients you get are astonishing. “This powerful food based supplement has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties found in many studies. Additional benefits of this powder are the amount of key nutrients like Omega-3’s, chlorophyll, absorbable B12, and protein,” Dopp says. This is a well-rounded superfood that is a must in your diet! Just add a scoop of powder along with your favorite fruits in the blender and shake it up for a delicious smoothie.
2. Add goji berries to your morning breakfast bowl.
“Goji berries are high in Vitamin A and even have a little protein. They have been used for many years for blood pressure, diabetes, and eye health. They can help with sleep and your immune system as they provide good amounts of antioxidants” Dopp says. Goji berries add a mild sweetness and chewiness that work well with a lot of foods, including your breakfast bowl. Try topping on oatmeal, yogurt, or a smoothie bowl.
3. Add chopped parsley to your salad.
Parsley can not only be a big boost to your nutrient content, but it also adds great flavor. “If you’re making soup due to cooler weather, parsley is great for that too. Parsley is a herb that eliminates free radicals from the body, which decreases inflammation. Like the prior two tips, this superfood is also high in antioxidants,” Dopp says. Chop up some parsley, add it to your favorite greens, and sprinkle some nuts for a tasty salad.
4. Add turmeric powder to your roasted vegetables.
“Turmeric provides a nice golden color which many people also use for golden milk tea. It has a mild flavor and has a plethora of health benefits ranging from reducing inflammation, helping brain function, increased ability to fight free radicals, and fight cancer. After you roast your veggies in the oven, add the turmeric, as curcumin (the active nutrient in turmeric) does not stay very stable in heat,” Dopp says. Turmeric is also delicious in sauces or stir-fries with your favorite vegetables.
