Could You Be Lacking These 5 Essential Nutrients? Ithaca NY

Many women aren't getting enough of five essential nutrients that could make a big difference to their health. While all are readily available through a healthy diet, many of us don't eat as well as we could.  Read on for why we're skimping and what to do about it.

1. Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that helps ward off disease. It's an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals that might contribute to cardiovascular disease and cancer. Women should get 15 mg daily but most consume less than half the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA).  Vitamin E is plentiful in high-fat foods like nuts, avocados, and vegetable oils, that many women don't eat enough of.

Snack on nuts and seeds, or toss them into salads.  Have guacamole with your chips.  Cook more colorful vegetables like peppers and beans with vegetable oils instead of butter.

2. Vitamin A. Remember when your mother told you to eat carrots for good eyesight? She was right. Most women consume only about half their RDA of 4700 mg of Vitamin A. Carrots are an excellent source of this essential nutrient as are other bright orange fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, apricots, cantaloupes, and pumpkins.  Vitamin A protects our eye health, acts as an antioxidant, bumps up our immune systems, and gives us beautiful skin.  New studies also suggest that this essential nutrient may improve cognitive function in older adults...

Click here to read more from Quality Health