Health Coaching involves a mentor and wellness practitioner that supports and helps individuals reach their optimal health and feel their best through a customized food and lifestyle program that meets their unique needs and goals.
Health coaching does not focus on one diet or way of living.
Integrative Nutrition Coaching focuses on:
Bio-individuality meaning we’re all different and are unique
Diet
Lifestyle
Emotional needs
Physical needs
It emphasizes health beyond the plate and wellness through primary food. However, at the core is the idea that there are areas that impact health just as much as food. This means that:
Relationships
Career
Spirituality
Physical activity
All contribute to overall well-being.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to health and wellness.
These professionals work with clients and teach them how to:
Detox their bodies
Fuel their bodies
Maintain their bodies
This leads to individuals becoming the:
Healthiest
Happiest
That they can be!
Health Coaching offers services in private one-on-one sessions and group coaching.
🥦 Healing Through Nutrition: The Ultimate Post-Car Accident Recovery Diet
Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) don’t just leave dents in cars—they often have a permanent impact on our bodies. From whiplash and ligament injuries to joint pain and systemic inflammation, your body needs comprehensive healing after an accident. One of the most overlooked yet essential components of this healing process is nutrition.
In this guide, we’ll explore how the right foods support recovery after a motor vehicle accident (MVA), based on clinical evidence and the expertise of Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC—a dual-licensed chiropractor and nurse practitioner in El Paso, Texas.
🚗 How Motor Vehicle Accidents Damage the Body
MVAs can trigger musculoskeletal injuries such as whiplash, joint damage, inflammation, and even microtrauma that goes undetected for weeks. According to clinical reports on ligamentous damage and neurological correlation, such trauma often disrupts joint function and creates compensatory muscle strain. [Ligamentous Damage and Neurological Correlation Report].
Over time, this can lead to:
Chronic neck and back pain
Reduced range of motion
Soft tissue swelling
Oxidative stress and cellular inflammation
A diet rich in antioxidants, lean protein, and anti-inflammatory nutrients can help repair this internal damage.
🧠 The Connection Between Nutrition and Recovery
What you eat determines how well your body heals.
After trauma, your body enters a heightened state of inflammation. While this process helps protect damaged tissues initially, prolonged inflammation can stall recovery. Research from functional medicine sources indicates that consuming specific foods can accelerate tissue repair, mitigate oxidative damage, and help rebuild muscle mass. [Tantalizing & Powerful Foods to Supercharge Injury Recovery].
🥬 Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouses to Include
✅ Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and arugula are loaded with phytonutrients and vitamin K, which support blood clotting and cellular repair.
✅ Fatty Fish
Salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce systemic inflammation and ease joint stiffness.
✅ Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that reduce free radical damage.
✅ Turmeric and Ginger
These spices contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds, such as curcumin and gingerol.
These ingredients provide significant support for accident-related trauma and inflammation, aiding the musculoskeletal system in recovering more quickly. [Nutrition for Injury Recovery—Foothills Rehab].
🥩 Protein-Rich Foods for Muscle and Tissue Repair
After an accident, your body ramps up its protein demands. This is especially true for those with:
Muscle tears
Joint damage
Spinal misalignment
Best protein sources:
Chicken breast
Turkey
Fish
Eggs
Plant-based sources like lentils and quinoa
According to Miracle Rehab Clinic, incorporating high-quality protein helps rebuild muscle and connective tissue damaged in the accident [Nutrition and Injury Recovery—Miracle Rehab].
🥑 Healthy Fats for Joint Cushioning and Brain Health
Dehydration slows healing. Post-accident recovery demands more than just water—it requires minerals and collagen for rebuilding tendons and ligaments.
Hydrating Foods:
Watermelon
Cucumber
Bone broth (rich in collagen)
Dr. Jimenez has incorporated bone broth into clinical care plans for ligament rehabilitation, combining dietary coaching with diagnostic assessments.
🧬 Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s Dual-Scope Strategy
Dr. Jimenez integrates chiropractic care with functional medicine to manage:
Cervical ligament injuries
Spinal instability
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Post-traumatic radiculopathy
By utilizing advanced imaging and personalized nutrition protocols, he assists patients in reducing systemic inflammation and regenerating soft tissues. His expertise as a dual-licensed provider allows legal and medical teams to coordinate recovery plans and documentation for personal injury claims. [Dr. Alexander Jimenez].
These foods intensify inflammation and delay tissue repair.
🧘 Lifestyle Tips to Enhance Healing
Pair your diet with:
Physical therapy
Chiropractic adjustments
Gentle stretching (under supervision)
Restful sleep
Hydration tracking
📣 Call to Action: Start Healing Today
If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, don’t wait to begin your healing journey. Partnering with an integrative healthcare provider, such as Dr. Jimenez, can significantly enhance your nutritional support.
For a personalized injury recovery plan that blends diet, chiropractic care, and legal documentation, contact Dr. Jimenez today or visit El Paso Back Clinic.
Can incorporating sauerkraut into one’s diet help promote healthy gut bacteria?
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, a fermented cabbage food, is a great source of probiotics and fiber, both of which can contribute to gut health. It’s a living food containing various microbial strains and can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and improve overall gut health. (Shahbazi R. et al., 2021)
Fermented foods like sauerkraut have live cultures that promote the growth of beneficial probiotics, bacteria that provide powerful health benefits. Probiotics also help make foods more digestible, increasing the gut’s ability to absorb the vitamins and minerals they contain. A study found that fermented cabbage may help protect intestinal cells from inflammatory damage more than raw cabbage. (Wei L., & Marco M. L., 2025)
Homemade sauerkraut likely contains more live cultures than store-bought since processing may destroy some of the healthy bacteria. (National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, 2023) Depending on which supplement is chosen, sauerkraut may have a greater diversity of probiotic strains. This is because an oral supplement has a known quantity and strain of probiotics. Individuals who want to add probiotics to their diet for potential gut health benefits should take a food-first approach, which is generally recommended over oral supplements. (National Institutes of Health, 2025)
Look at the Benefits
Probiotics
Sauerkraut contains lactic acid bacteria, which are beneficial bacteria that can help support the immune system and reduce inflammation. (Healthline, 2023)
Fiber
Sauerkraut is a robust source of fiber, which aids in digestion and can help you feel full longer.
Digestion
The probiotics in sauerkraut can improve digestion by promoting a healthy gut microbiome. (Medical News Today, 2023)
Consult with a doctor before adding sauerkraut to your diet if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Start small and learn how you like to eat sauerkraut, which can be as a condiment, side dish, or sandwich ingredient.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop highly effective treatment plans through an integrated approach for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and integrated medicine protocols. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. The clinic can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Body In Balance: Chiropractic, Fitness, and Nutrition
References
Shahbazi, R., Sharifzad, F., Bagheri, R., Alsadi, N., Yasavoli-Sharahi, H., & Matar, C. (2021). Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Properties of Fermented Plant Foods. Nutrients, 13(5), 1516. doi.org/10.3390/nu13051516
Wei, L., & Marco, M. L. (2025). The fermented cabbage metabolome and its protection against cytokine-induced intestinal barrier disruption of Caco-2 monolayers. Applied and environmental microbiology, e0223424. Advance online publication. doi.org/10.1128/aem.02234-24
Enzymes’ function is to help trigger bodily processes ranging from digestion to blood clotting to growth. What is the best way to support enzyme production?
Enzymes
Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts. They cause and speed up crucial chemical reactions and help the body complete necessary chemical reactions. They are vital for many biological processes, including digestion, metabolism, and molecule building and breaking down. This includes breaking down food, facilitating growth, and forming blood clots. Too little of a certain type can lead to serious health implications like a fatal buildup of toxins. Individuals missing a certain kind of enzyme or having too little of it can develop serious health conditions.
Function
They help speed up chemical reactions in the body (National Human Genome Research Institute, 2025). They facilitate chemical reactions in everything from digesting food to muscle growth. Enzymes facilitate this by binding to a cell, creating the reactions needed. With enzyme binding, chemical reactions can occur without destroying the cell. (Nemours KidsHealth, 2023) Each cell in the body has thousands of enzymes to help facilitate all the complex reactions to maintain health. (National Human Genome Research Institute, 2025)
Factors Affecting Production
In healthy individuals, the body produces the enzymes it needs. However, metabolic disorders can occur if the body does not produce enough of a certain type. (Kennedy Krieger Institute, 2025) These disorders can be serious and are usually caused by a genetic malfunction that impacts production.
Types
There are thousands of different types. Digestive enzymes, for example, aid in the breakdown of food and convert it into energy. Common enzymes that are critical for health include (Nemours KidsHealth, 2023)
Amylase
Digestive helps break down starches.
Aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and Alanine Aminotransaminase (ALT)
Help the liver convert sugar into energy.
Creatine Kinase (CK)
Helps muscles create energy.
DNA Polymerase
Facilitates growth by allowing DNA to duplicate.
Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase
Keeps red blood cells healthy by preventing damage to the cell.
Lipase
A digestive enzyme that helps break down fats and oils.
Protease
Digestive helps break down proteins.
Thrombin
Causes blood to clot.
Deficiencies
If the body doesn’t make enough of a certain enzyme, it cannot undergo the bodily processes that the enzyme helps facilitate. This can lead to a variety of symptoms. Some are minor, like not being able to eat lactose. Others are serious, like developmental delays caused by the build-up of toxins. (Kennedy Krieger Institute, 2025) Usually, these deficiencies are caused by genetics.
Types
There are various deficiencies. Some are very rare, while others can lead to conditions such as: (Nemours KidsHealth, 2023)
Lactose Intolerance
This is caused by not having enough of the enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk, leading to gas and bloating.
Tay-Sachs Disease
An often fatal disease caused by a missing hexosaminidase, which is responsible for breaking down fats
Gilbert’s Syndrome
This is caused by a missing enzyme that removes waste product (bilirubin) from the blood, leading to bilirubin buildup and
Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
Galactosemia
This leads to slow growth and trouble gaining weight, which is caused by the missing galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT), which helps break down a sugar called galactose.
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
This is caused by having too little phenylalanine hydroxylase, which breaks down a protein called phenylalanine, causing brain damage.
Morquio Syndrome
This is caused by having too few enzymes that break down glycosaminoglycans, a type of sugar molecule.
This leads to bone and growth abnormalities.
Wilson’s Disease
A liver disease is caused by a missing protein that helps break down copper in the body.
Enzyme Production Support
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables to support enzyme production. Avoid processed foods, especially those that are very fatty (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2025). The body produces all the necessary enzymes unless the individual has a genetic condition. Supplements aren’t usually required, but they can help with lactose intolerance or digestion in cystic fibrosis patients. (Nemours KidsHealth, 2023)
One supplement type, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), is available. PERT is an FDA-regulated prescription medication prescribed to patients with serious illnesses such as cystic fibrosis. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2019)
Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.
Can incorporating nutritional yeast be an option for individuals seeking a healthy vegan and vegetarian cheese substitute?
Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated form of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, commonly known as baker’s or brewer’s yeast. It’s popular in vegan and vegetarian cooking for its savory, cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits. Nutritional yeast is harvested, rinsed, and heat-dried to deactivate it, removing its leavening properties. This means it doesn’t cause food to rise but adds flavor and vital nutrients.
Around 1.5 tablespoons contains 5 grams of carbohydrates, including 3 grams of fiber.
Yeast provides an especially beneficial form of soluble fiber known as beta-glucan, with unique health benefits. (Bashir K. M. I., & Choi J. S. 2017)
Fats
Most brands are naturally fat-free.
Protein
It provides all essential amino acids with 8 grams per 1.5 tablespoons.
Vitamins and Minerals
Most nutritional yeast products are fortified with added B vitamins. Most provide 600% or more B vitamins per 16 grams and 1,000% of the daily value for vitamin B12, depending on the brand. It also has:
Calcium
Thiamin
Iron
Potassium
Nutritional Yeast Health Benefits
Health benefits include:
Reduces Risk of Anemia
Iron is typically the first nutrient to come to mind. However, inadequate folate or vitamin B12 also causes anemia. A common treatment for a vitamin B12 deficiency is injections, but large doses consumed can also be effective. (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, 2024) Individuals who follow a plant-based or vegan diet often have limited sources of vitamin B12. Most brands of nutritional yeast are fortified with B12, providing more than 500% of the daily value per serving. Because B12 is water-soluble, it won’t cause toxicity when consumed in high doses and can serve as a key source of this essential nutrient.
Supports Heart Health
Nutritional yeast contains beta-glucan, a carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants, bacteria, and fungi. Higher intakes lead to favorable cardiovascular outcomes, including lowering bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. (Bashir K. M. I., & Choi J. S. 2017) In addition, most brands contain potassium, which reduces blood pressure.
Promote Healthy Immune System Function
More research is needed, but several studies have shown how yeast-derived beta-glucan can strengthen the immune system. (Stier H., Ebbeskotte V., & Gruenwald J. 2014) These benefits are attributed to beta glucan’s bacterial fermentation in the intestines. Beta-glucan may also stimulate the activity of crucial immune system cells, like macrophages.
Prevents Constipation
Fiber is essential. The recommended fiber intake is at least 25 to 35 grams daily. Unfortunately, many do not get enough. Nutritional yeast contributes 3 grams of fiber per 16 grams. Fiber regulates bowel movements by pulling water into the colon and adding bulk and softness to stool. (University of Michigan, 2008)
Using nutritional yeast can help reach an adequate fiber intake.
Diabetes Management
Getting enough fiber helps prevent blood sugar fluctuations. Low-fiber diets have been shown to increase the risk of diabetes in various populations. (Harvard T.H. Chan, School of Public Health, 2022) Fiber slows digestion and increases satiety, controlling hunger and the glycemic response. Fiber is beneficial for preventing diabetes and helping those with diabetes maintain good numbers.
Allergies
Individuals who suspect a yeast or mold allergy see an allergist for a full evaluation.
Yeast overgrowth is another possible condition that is unrelated to yeast allergies.
Yeast overgrowth can occur in compromised immune systems or following antibiotic treatment.
Because yeast is present in many foods, anyone with a true yeast allergy may have to avoid several food items, including baked goods, fermented alcoholic beverages, marmite/vegemite, sourdough bread, and certain multivitamins. (Cunningham E. 2013)
Adverse Effects
Nutritional yeast is inactive and unlikely to cause negative effects. However, for individuals who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or migraines, yeast may be a trigger. (UMass Medical School Center for Applied Nutrition, 2020)
Check the label to see if the product is fortified with added vitamins and minerals or has added sodium.
Nutritional yeast is a dry food product available year-round in supermarkets or sold in a bulk food bin.
Storage, Safety, and Use
Although nutritional yeast is a dry product, it will stay in the refrigerator longer after it has been opened. Store it in an airtight container, and be mindful of the expiration date on the label.
It can be added to savory dishes such as pasta, roasted meats, vegetables, and salads. Ways to use include:
On scrambled eggs.
On top of garlic bread.
Popcorn seasoning.
Add to soups.
In pasta dishes, as a substitute for parmesan cheese.
An alternative to cheese sauce.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop highly effective treatment plans through an integrated approach for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and integrated medicine protocols. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. The clinic can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Bashir, K. M. I., & Choi, J. S. (2017). Clinical and Physiological Perspectives of β-Glucans: The Past, Present, and Future. International journal of molecular sciences, 18(9), 1906. doi.org/10.3390/ijms18091906
Cunningham E. (2013). Is there a diet for “yeast allergy”? Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 113(3), 484. doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2013.01.013
How is eucalyptus tea made, and what are its health benefits?
Eucalyptus Tea
Eucalyptus tea is an herbal tea made from the leaves of the Australian eucalyptus tree. It is drunk as a hot tea and is commonly used to treat cold and flu symptoms. It can also be combined with other teas as a tonic. Researchers have been studying its benefits.
Eucalyptus Tree
There are different varieties of eucalyptus trees. The blue gum or Australian fever tree is a fast-growing tree that produces long grey-greenish leaves whose glands contain essential oil to prepare eucalyptus tea and oil. Eucalyptus tea is made from crushed leaves of the tree, not from the oil. The hot drink is sometimes called eucalyptus leaves tea to avoid confusion. The tea has a pale green color and a strong scent that can be described as woody or piney and clean or fresh. The smell is familiar to many because many lip balms and skin creams are made with eucalyptus.
Making The Tea
Eucalyptus or loose-leaf tea bags can be purchased in grocery stores, health markets, and online. Follow the instructions provided on the box. Eucalyptus leaves can be prepared for tea at home, but it must be prepared with leaves and not with eucalyptus oil, as using the oil can produce harmful side effects.
Home Preparation
To make the tea, use one dried eucalyptus leaf (around a teaspoon).
Add the crushed leaf to the bottom of an eight-ounce teacup.
Heat water to 194-205 Fahrenheit if using a temperature-controlled teapot.
Or bring water to a boil and let it sit for a minute to reduce the temperature.
Pour six ounces of water over the tea leaves.
Let the leaves steep for as long as desired, up to 10 minutes.
Breathe in the vapors while the tea is steeping.
Strain loose leaves from the cup before drinking.
Adding honey to the tea will increase sugar, sweetness, and calories. However, if you drink the tea to soothe a sore throat, the honey can also help ease symptoms. (Allan G. M. and Arroll B. 2014) The tea can also be blended with peppermint and chamomile (manzanilla) to increase its soothing properties.
Caffeine
Eucalyptus tea is not a traditional tea and is not made from Camellia sinensis plant leaves, like black or green tea. It is brewed from just the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, which do not contain any caffeine, making the tea completely caffeine-free. However, the vapors can be described as bright and refreshing.
Health Benefits
Most scientific research on eucalyptus’s health benefits uses the oil rather than the tea. The oil is much more concentrated, so drinking the tea is unlikely to provide the same benefits. However, according to a study, the leaves contain flavonoids and tannins that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. (Panche A. N., Diwan A. D., and Chandra S. R. 2016)
Eucalyptus tea is commonly used as an inhalant to relieve cold or flu symptoms. Its vapors are often described as healing because inhaling them helps open up congested airways. However, there isn’t enough evidence to recommend using eucalyptus for cold. (American Lung Association, 2024) In addition to treatment for the common cold, eucalyptus has gained a variety of other health benefits, including (Dhakad A. K. et al., 2018)
Headache relief
Asthma treatment
Bronchitis treatment
Diabetes treatment
Reduce dental plaque and bad breath
Help treat liver and gallbladder problems
Prevent insect bites
Eliminate head lice
Toothpaste, mouthwash, bath products, and body creams made with eucalyptus are commonly found in stores.
Side Effects
Eucalyptus leaves are generally safe when consumed in the small amounts found in foods. However, there isn’t enough information to determine whether supplements containing larger amounts of eucalyptus leaf are safe when taken by mouth. Consulting with a healthcare provider before using this or any other herbal treatment is always recommended.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic focuses on and treats injuries and chronic pain syndromes through personalized care plans that improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. Our providers use an integrated approach to create customized care plans for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and sports medicine protocols. If the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, nutritionists, and health coaches to provide the most effective clinical treatments.
Assessing Patients in a Chiropractic Setting
References
Allan, G. M., & Arroll, B. (2014). Prevention and treatment of the common cold: making sense of the evidence. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l’Association medicale canadienne, 186(3), 190–199. doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.121442
Panche, A. N., Diwan, A. D., & Chandra, S. R. (2016). Flavonoids: an overview. Journal of nutritional science, 5, e47. doi.org/10.1017/jns.2016.41
Dhakad, A. K., Pandey, V. V., Beg, S., Rawat, J. M., & Singh, A. (2018). Biological, medicinal and toxicological significance of Eucalyptus leaf essential oil: a review. Journal of the science of food and agriculture, 98(3), 833–848. doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.8600
Does an individual’s ideal daily intake of vegetables depend on age, sex, and activity level?
Daily Serving of Vegetables
Vegetables are vital to a healthy diet. Every type offers various nutrients in a unique combination of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Plus, they are low in fat and calories and packed with fiber. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and other health organizations recommend eating a variety for optimal health. An age guide recommends the number of cups of vegetables that babies and older adults should consume daily. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that very few individuals meet the vegetable consumption guidelines, putting them at risk for chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017)
What Is a Serving?
Current Dietary Guidelines recommend 2 1/2 cups of vegetables or nine servings daily. However, the amount varies by age. Serving sizes are also based on the type of vegetable. Overall, individuals are recommended to consume a variety each day. For most vegetables, a serving equals the amount that will fill one measuring cup. However, a serving of raw leafy greens like spinach and lettuce is two cups (U. S. Department of Agriculture, 2020), and eight ounces of vegetable juice also counts as one cup serving. For those who don’t have a measuring cup or kitchen scale, here are some one-cup equivalents for certain vegetables.
One large tomato
One medium potato
One large ear of corn
One large sweet pepper
One large sweet potato
Two medium carrots
Five or six broccoli florets
Another way is to use tablespoons—one cup contains around 16 tablespoons, which can be used when calculating servings for babies, toddlers, and young children.
Babies
Most babies are ready to eat solid foods between four and six months. There’s no ideal order, so starting with vegetables is fine. Starting babies with foods like peas, carrots, and squash could help encourage a preference for these foods that will carry on into adulthood, as babies tend to gravitate toward sweet flavors and may only want applesauce and pears, which could lead to not wanting to eat vegetables. It is recommended to start with a few teaspoons at a time. Eventually, they will eat about three or four tablespoons of baby food, like cereal or purees, a few times a day, which can fill about half a cup.
Toddlers 2-3
Toddlers age two to three should consume one cup of vegetables each day. If that sounds like a lot, remember that one cup can be spread throughout the day—it doesn’t have to be finished in a single meal. It also means one cup of various vegetables, not just one type. For example, some baby carrots during breakfast, steamed broccoli for lunch, and roasted sweet potatoes with dinner. Each serving can include four tablespoons that will become one serving. And if the only vegetable the toddler will eat is corn, that’s okay. There are also ways to disguise vegetables so they will eat them, like spinach or kale, which can disappear into a fruit smoothie. Children under five can choke on uncooked fruits and vegetables, so make sure whatever form is safe.
Young Children 4-8
Boys and girls in this age group should eat one and a half cups of vegetables daily. Regarding preparation, it’s fine to eat raw and cooked veggies. However, four-year-olds are still at risk of choking on raw vegetables. Cut carrots, bell peppers, and other vegetables into pieces no larger than a half-inch long so they won’t get stuck in their throat if inadvertently swallowed without chewing properly. And steamed, baked, and roasted vegetables are the healthiest.
Tweens 9-13
During the tween years, nutritional needs vary slightly based on sex. The recommended daily amount for girls is at least two cups. For boys, the recommendation is at least two and a half cups. Tweens of either gender who are especially active benefit from eating more than the suggested minimum. Research shows that boys eat fewer vegetables and fruits than girls. (Bere E. et al., 2008) Offer as much variety of vegetables and ways to prepare to find the ones they enjoy most.
Teens 14-18
Teenage girls should eat at least two and a half cups of vegetables daily, and boys eat at least three cups. Active teens who get 30 minutes of exercise daily may need more. However, it can be harder to monitor their vegetable intake as kids get older and spend more time eating away from home. In all family meals, try to include a variety of healthy prepared vegetables like:
Raw in salads
Steamed
Roasted
Baked as a side dish
Folded into omelets
Added to soups and stews
Layered on pizzas
Make it easy for teenagers to have vegetables between meals. Pre-cut carrots, celery, and bell peppers can be kept front and center in the fridge alongside hummus or guacamole for dipping.
Young Adults 19-30
The recommended daily amount of vegetables for individuals ages 19 to 30 is the same as for teens: at least three cups daily for men and at least two and a half cups for women. Those who exercise should include more. If a busy lifestyle makes getting all the vegetables needed difficult, take advantage of options like smoothies, including vegetables, pre-tossed salads, and prepped-for-cooking vegetables at the store. They may be more expensive, but if the time saved makes it easier to eat vegetables, it may be worth it, and eventually, individuals will learn how to prepare their own. Kitchen gadgets, like a smoothie blender, can help with faster preparations.
Adults 31-50
As with young adults, the amount of vegetables should be at least two and a half cups daily for women, three cups for men, and more for those who work out or are physically active.
Older Adults 51-Up
Because the body’s metabolism slows down, individuals 51 and older are advised to cut calories to prevent weight gain. This also applies to calories from vegetables. Women 51 and older should consume around two cups of vegetables daily, and men should consume around two and a half cups. Active older adults should continue to factor in the amount of physical activity with vegetable intake. Individuals should talk to their doctor or see a nutritionist if they want more specific guidance on what to include in their diet.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic providers use an integrated approach to create personalized care plans for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and sports medicine protocols. If the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, nutritionists, and health coaches to provide the most effective clinical treatments.
Bere, E., Brug, J., & Klepp, K. I. (2008). Why do boys eat less fruit and vegetables than girls?. Public health nutrition, 11(3), 321–325. doi.org/10.1017/S1368980007000729
Fans of almonds may have noticed that they can go stale and taste awful. Can knowing how to store almonds help extend their shelf life?
Almonds
Almonds are a healthy, satisfying snack rich in nutrients, including fiber and protein. However, they can go stale and should not be eaten. Whole almonds stay fresh the longest because chopped, roasted, or ground almonds release their oils, which are exposed to more oxygen and go rancid more quickly.
Storage
They should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for extended life. They are not recommended to be stored at room temperature for long periods, so storing them in the pantry is not recommended. However, enough for a snack can be taken from storage for a day or two while keeping the rest safe and fresh.
Natural almonds can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for two years or more.
Roasted almonds can stay fresh for up to a year in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Almond paste is recommended to be refrigerated and can stay fresh for 2 to 2 1/2 years.
Rancidity
Almonds are rich in omega-3 and monounsaturated fats, so they are recommended for heart health. (Cleveland Clinic, 2023) However, the fats become rancid if the almonds are exposed to oxygen, especially at room temperature. Rancid oil gives the stale almonds a bad taste. Spoiled almonds are not poisonous, but the fats no longer benefit health. It is possible that rancid fat could contribute to chronic health problems if consumed regularly. (Estévez M. et al., 2017) Almonds last longer than other nuts because they contain some phytochemical antioxidants that protect the nuts. So, if they taste bad, it’s time to throw them out. (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, 2010)
Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacteria that causes symptoms of food-borne illness, including upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Almonds are generally safe from salmonella. However, raw almonds were responsible for two salmonella outbreaks in the United States and Canada. Salmonella outbreaks have also been reported in Australia. In response to those cases, the nuts now must be roasted, blanched, processed, steamed, or treated with a gas called propylene oxide. And none of these treatments remove the nutritional benefits.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic providers use an integrated approach to create customized care plans for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, chiropractic adjustments, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and sports medicine protocols. If the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, nutritionists, and health coaches to provide the most effective clinical treatments.
Estévez, M., Li, Z., Soladoye, O. P., & Van-Hecke, T. (2017). Health Risks of Food Oxidation. Advances in food and nutrition research, 82, 45–81. doi.org/10.1016/bs.afnr.2016.12.005
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine