Vegetables in Season for the Month of February

Vegetables in Season for the Month of February

Here is a list of delicious vegetables in season for the month of February and their nutritional value.

Artichokes

Artichokes are low in fat while rich in nutrients which include fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. High in folate and vitamins C and K, and important minerals: magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. Consequently, the health benefits include lower blood sugar levels, improved digestion, heart and liver health.

Beetroot

Packed with essential nutrients, beetroots are a great source of fiber. Also, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. As a result, health benefits include improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and increased exercise performance.

Broccoli

Broccoli helps to excrete large amounts of the most dangerous air pollutants from our body. Including benzene and acrolein, a carcinogen and a lung irritant respectively. Contains glucosinolates and vitamin C, shown to fight against oxidative stress. Broccoli contains sulforaphane, which may inhibit glucose production.  Diets rich in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, may reduce cancer risk, including lung, bladder, and prostate.

 Brussels Sprout

Brussels sprouts contain kaempferol, an antioxidant that may reduce cancer growth, decrease inflammation and promote heart health. Rich  in vitamin K, a nutrient important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. The fiber and antioxidants in Brussels sprouts may help stabilize your blood sugar levels. A good source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids. Can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, cognitive decline and blood triglycerides. High in vitamin C, an antioxidant that’s important for immune health, iron absorption, collagen production and also the growth and repair of tissues.

Cabbage

Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that may reduce inflammation. Cabbage contains insoluble fiber, which keeps the digestive system healthy. Ideal for providing fuel for friendly bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements. Especially high in Vitamin C & K. Cabbage contains powerful pigments called anthocyanins, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Potassium in cabbage helps keep blood pressure within a healthy range. Cabbage is a good source of soluble fiber and plant sterols. These substances have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol.

Carrots

This vegetable is rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids. Carrots are considered one of the best anti-cancer foods, due to its antioxidant, immune stimulating and anti-aging properties. They help regulating the intestine. They improve night vision. Cheeks become rosy because the carotene has also anti-anemic properties and increases the number of red blood cells.

Cauliflower

Vitamins C , K and manganese are antioxidants in cauliflower. They can neutralize free radicals before they can cause damage to healthy cells. Consequently, they contribute to the prevention of heart disease, cancer and arthritis.

Fennel and Fennel seeds

 Fennel and fennel seeds provide important nutrients. These include: vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber and manganese, essential for good heart health. Certainly, all parts of the fennel plant are rich in powerful antioxidants: chlorogenic acid, limonene, and quercetin. Therefore, fennel may have anticancer properties. Fennel has antibacterial properties and as a result, may improve mental health, relieve menopausal symptoms, and reduce inflammation.

Leeks

Leeks have a high concentration of vitamins K and B6, a unique combination of flavonoids and sulfur-containing nutrients. Furthermore, they contain plenty of folates. Rich in minerals such as:  potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Potassium is vital for nerve function and energy production. Calcium and phosphorus help strengthen your teeth and bones. Leeks also contain iron which is vital for hemoglobin synthesis and enzymatic reactions related to energy production.

Pumpkins

Pumpkins are rich in vitamin A, contain vitamin B1 and B2, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron. It’s hypocaloric and therefore ideal for those wishing to lose weight. It’s an excellent energizing food for children. Pumpkin tackles infection, protects the heart and intestines and is laxative. Also, it contains betacarotene, which is an anti-cancer substance.

Spinach

Eating spinach may benefit eye health, reduce oxidative stress, help prevent cancer, and reduce blood pressure levels. Spinach is low in carbs but high in insoluble fiber. Hence, this type of fiber may benefit your digestion. Spinach is an extremely nutrient-rich vegetable. It contains high amounts of carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, iron, and calcium. Finally, spinach has many plant compounds that can improve health, such as lutein, kaempferol, nitrates, quercetin and zeaxanthin.

In conclusion, February is the ideal month to begin cleansing the body from toxins accumulated during the winter. These delicious vegetables, in season for the month of February, are some of the world’s best, healthiest, powerhouse vegetables. Experiment with these marvelous veggies in your favorite recipes.