If you haven’t already heard, romaine lettuce has been recalled due to E. coli. E. coli is short for Escherichia coli and is a form of bacteria that is found in the lower intestine of the human body. This bacteria is dangerous because it can cause extreme anemia and kidney failure, which can lead to death in some serious instances. Romaine lettuce is found in most pre-packaged salads and fast food salads. The source of the E. coli outbreak has been linked to California, so if you still have any romaine, please get rid of it! If you still want to enjoy a nice salad sans romaine, here are some alternatives you can try:

  • Spinach: high nutrient levels that can regulate your blood pressure and keep your hair and nails healthy
  • Kale: protein packed and promotes a healthy digestive tract
  • Arugula: great source of dietary nitrate and can reduce blood pressure. Some studies have shown arugula can enhance athletic performance
  • Brussel sprouts: High in fiber and promotes weight loss
  • Broccoli: high in vitamin C and helps build collagen, which forms body tissue and bone
  • Cucumbers: promotes hydration and contains high levels of antioxidants
  • Zucchini: anti-inflammatory nutrients that are good for your heart
  • Butter lettuce: large source of vitamin A, which helps promotes healthy bones and blood
  • Potatoes: high in carbs (carbs are healthy!) and fiber and can help maintain blood sugar

Rinah Anatalio / Daily Nexus

Salads may have a reputation of being boring, but they don’t have to be! You can avoid a boring salad by incorporating new foods and toppings. Some of my favorite salad additions are chickpeas, tomatoes, sunflower greens and a fried egg. I like to make my salads as colorful as possible by adding one food for each color of the rainbow.  So next time you make a salad, skip the romaine and pile on some other nutrient-dense alternatives!

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