Thursday

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"Your body is not a temple, it's an amusement park. Enjoy the ride."

-Anthony Bourdain

Welcome to Thursday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Why you should eat more cabbage

• What’s the difference between Matcha and green tea?

• 90% of Americans are missing this in their meals

• Are you making these breakfast mistakes?

Why Cabbage Should Be Your Next Superfood

Cabbage isn’t just for cole slaw anymore—it’s a superfood that’s making a major comeback, and for good reason. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, cabbage is a versatile veggie that’s both wallet-friendly and easy to incorporate into any diet.

Rich in Vitamin C and K, cabbage supports immune function and bone health. Its hearty leaves offer a satisfying crunch, and they’re just as nutritious whether eaten raw or cooked. When cooked, the fiber becomes gentler on the stomach, making it easier to digest, while its bioavailability of nutrients like iron increases. Raw cabbage offers more antioxidants, though, for those looking to pack in extra cell-protecting power.

Whether you’re sautéing it with garlic or making a tangy slaw, cabbage can take on countless forms. It’s the perfect base for a hearty meal or a refreshing side dish. Plus, it lasts weeks in the fridge, making it a great pantry staple for meal prep.

Cabbage’s versatility also extends to its long shelf life, which is perfect for those looking to make the most of their grocery budget. It’s an underappreciated veggie that deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation.

What’s the Difference Between Green Tea and Matcha?

When it comes to tea, green and matcha are two beloved options, each offering unique benefits. Both come from the same plant—Camellia sinensis—but they are processed differently, which impacts their nutritional profile and health benefits.

Green tea is made by steeping unfermented leaves, preserving its light, grassy taste. It’s a powerhouse of antioxidants, known to support heart and brain health. A typical cup provides about 29 mg of caffeine, giving you a mild energy boost without the jitters.

On the other hand, matcha is a powdered form of green tea, made from finely ground leaves. Since you're consuming the entire leaf, matcha packs a stronger punch in antioxidants and beneficial compounds like catechins. It also contains more caffeine—around 49 mg per serving—so it’s a great option if you need an extra boost.

Both teas share similar health benefits, but matcha’s concentration makes it a more potent choice. The key difference? The intensity of the flavor and the caffeine hit. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, green tea may be the better option.

You're Probably Not Eating Enough Veggies - Here's How to Fix That

Did you know that only 1 in 10 Americans get the recommended daily servings of plants? Including a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet is essential for everything from greater longevity, to improved heart health, to a stronger immune system.

With Purple Carrot, you can get those veggies on your plate with zero planning involved, and they’re here to dish them up any way that works for you.

As the only 100% plant-based meal planning service in the US, you can shop their kits, ready to eat meals and sides, and groceries knowing every option comes chef-developed and dietitian-approved. And they’ll deliver straight to your door so you can focus on the good part -- eating damn good food.

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Thank you to Purple Carrot for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Simple Ways to Improve Your Breakfast Routine

We’ve all been there: rushing through breakfast or skipping it altogether. But according to dietitians, breakfast is one meal you shouldn’t underestimate. It sets the tone for your energy levels and productivity all day. So, if you’re in the habit of skimping on it, your body might be running on empty, struggling to catch up.

One of the biggest missteps? Skipping breakfast. Overnight, your body uses up stored glucose, leaving you with little fuel when you wake up. Without replenishing, you might find yourself reaching for sugary snacks later, only to crash before noon. A balanced breakfast with protein, fats, and carbs is key to keeping your energy steady and mood stable.

Another common issue is going for a tiny, quick fix like a granola bar. While better than nothing, it's not enough to sustain you through the morning. A hearty breakfast or a mid-morning snack can keep your metabolism and energy humming along. If you’re pressed for time, try meal prepping the night before for an easy grab-and-go option.

Finally, ditch the idea that breakfast has to look a certain way. It’s not just about cereal or eggs; your body doesn’t care if you’re eating lasagna or oatmeal. Whatever works for you, just make sure you’re giving it the fuel it needs to kickstart your day!

A Note From Us

Wellness Round-Up:

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False? True! Whether it’s the meditative rhythm of chopping veggies or the joy of a homemade meal, cooking can be a great way to slow down and care for yourself.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Cooking isn’t just about feeding yourself—it’s a daily act of care, creativity, and even a little science. Whether you're mastering a new recipe or just trying not to burn toast (we've all been there), the kitchen is a place to experiment, slow down, and nourish both body and mind.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!