Happy St. Patrick's Day!

...Put Some Green In Your Scene

Happy St. Paddy's Day! I so love the energy, the celebration of Irish culture and history... the GREEN. Without a doubt, the world is seen in many shades of green today − even though blue was the original color. In fact, it wasn't until the 18th century that it all turned green − bringing to life fairies, leprechauns, immortals, clovers, and, of course, those rich crops (see where I'm going with this?).

Seems like the perfect day to put some green in your scene. We all know how important fruits and veges are, yet many of us don't reap the benefits on a daily basis. What's up with that?

 How about starting with these super healthy greens?!  

• AVOCADOS: Sooooo good in sandwiches and salads, they boost eye health (thank you, lutein), explode with vitamin E, and lower cholesterol.

• KALE:  Rich in vitamin C and cancer fighting compounds... and as we know, a bone health booster. Add to that some anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties.

• ASPARAGUS: Go, digestive health! High in fiber as well as folate. It boasts vitamins A, C, and K; and it's delish!

• GREEN BEANS: Another fiber fave, they stabilize blood sugar and help reduce cholesterol.

• SEAWEED: With iodine (a thyroid necessity), iron, and anti-viral properties, it puts some punch in your salad (and your sushi!).

• EDAMAME: The plant-based protein that has become a popular snack food − these soybeans, when eaten instead of meat, help lower cholesterol intake.

• KIWI: Hello, vitamin C (more than an orange!), potassium (more than a banana!), fiber, and deliciousness. Add to salads, cereal, yogurt... or peel and eat for a satisfying treat.

I could go on and on... but just remember that this is a great day to celebrate a beautiful culture along with some GREEN − and start incorporating more nutrients into our lives on a regular basis.

And now for some cool St. Patrick's Day facts. Did you know that...

... Well, I already told you that blue was the original color of St. Patrick's Day, but it was because the knights of the Order of St. Patrick actually wore the color blue.

... This may be obvious, but never say "St. Patty's" day. You can say St. Patrick's Day (of course), St. Paddy's Day, St. Pat's Day − but Patty is a nickname for Patricia, and definitely not cool when it comes to celebrating St. Patrick (even though legend has it, he was born Maewyn Succat)!

... St. Patrick wasn't born in Ireland; he was born in Britain.

... In Ireland, many celebrate with pork. Corned beef and cabbage is an American tradition.

... And finally, it is estimated that only 1 in every 10,000 clovers has 4 leaves. But a Shamrock has 3 leaves (not four!), so it's all good.

Wishing you and yours a happy, safe, and green St. Paddy's Day! May the luck...and nutrients... be with you today and always...