Recharge with spring veggies

Feel your best with these in-season picks

- BRENDA KEARNS

SKIN HEALER

Work a serving of spring peas into your daily diet, and your skin could look smoother and healthier in two weeks. Researchers reporting in the journal Legume Science say the tiny green gems brim with firming, collagen-healing proteins. Plus, their vitamin C and flavonoids repair damaged skin cells, increase moisture retention and improve skin tone.

ALLERGY TAMER

Cabbage contains natural antihistamines (anthocyanins and phenolic acids) that calm the immune system's reaction to pollen. This cuts the risk of spring allergy flares if you enjoy a heaping cup daily. Plus, it curbs the release of symptom-triggering histamine if you're stuffed-up, Portuguese scientists say. Tip: Opt for red cabbage since it has six times more of these allergy-taming compounds than green cabbage.