My Military Lifestyle is bringing you a series of blogs called Challenge Accepted. These blogs are aimed to help you become a better version of yourself in terms of health and wellness. We are challenging you to incorporate small changes into your daily routine that may help you become healthier. Are you up for this two-part healthy eating challenge?

Do you eat a lot of junk food? Are you always struggling to eat healthier? Why don’t you try this challenge? Eating healthy can seem like an impossible task but honestly just a few small changes in your lifestyle will get you started on the right path.

Now, I will admit I personally have a sweet tooth so after dinner each night, I’m always craving something sweet. Well, you know what I did?!?! I replaced the desserts and snacks I was eating, like chocolate and cookies, with a naturally sweet piece of fruit, and it worked like a charm. My personal favorite is peaches. I satisfy my sweet craving AND I’m incorporating fruit into my diet!

Don’t panic and feel like you need to make drastic changes. Simple adjustments can kickstart your progress. We have two challenges for you. Feel free to pick one or try a combination of both and don’t be afraid to document your results.

Challenge 1: Taste the rainbow or pick your favorite color: Snack on something new each week.

• Red: cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, apples, grapes, red potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes, watermelon
• Blue & Purple: blueberries, plums, raisins, grapes, eggplant, prunes
• Green: kiwi, limes, peas, pears, lettuce, spinach, zucchini, green peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, celery, cucumbers, green beans
• White: cauliflower, mushrooms, potatoes, parsnips
• Orange & Yellow: squash, apricots, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, lemon, grapefruit, mango, nectarines, oranges, peaches, pineapple, sweet potatoes, yams, yellow peppers

Challenge 2: Enjoy the seasons: Prepare at least one dish per week using a fruit or veggie that’s in season or try a fruit or veggie you’ve never eaten before.

• Spring: artichoke, asparagus, chives, leeks, radishes, rhubarb, swiss chard, carrots
• Summer: berries, corn, cucumber, eggplant, figs, grapes, melons, summer squash, zucchini, tomatoes
• Fall: apples, brussel sprouts, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, pears, dates 
• Winter: broccoli, cauliflower, celery, bok choy, leafy greens (collards, kale, mustard, spinach), root vegetables (beets, turnips)

Random fun facts about fruits and veggies…

• If you have a headache, eat bananas. 
• If you are dehydrated, eat cucumbers
• If you have inflammation, eat pineapples
• If you have insomnia, eat kiwi
• Did you know apples are more effective in waking you up than coffee?

Trying new things can be fun and let’s face it sometimes it’s good to shake up the menu. Get in the kitchen and let your creative juices flow. I think you might enjoy this challenge and it’s a great way to get your family eating more fruits and veggies as well. Plus, with so many benefits from fruits and vegetables, you just can’t go wrong!

Explore more with My Military Lifestyle and Healthy Living!