Choosing Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables to Stay Cool & Fresh
While it is not officially summer yet, the heat is on! One of my favorite things about summer is the beautiful fruits and vegetables that are in season. There is nothing like a cool and refreshing snack on a sweltering summer day. In addition to keeping us cool, eating in cycle with seasons also keeps us deeply connected with nature and is great for the environment. If you are looking for a few tips on utilizing seasonal food choices, keep reading to make this summer your best one yet!
Shop Local Farmers Markets
Farmers Markets typically have great in season produce. If you are not sure how or where to find out what is in season in your area, you can start by accessing your local crop harvest calendar. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are fresher, they taste better, have higher nutritional content, and tend to be less expensive. It is vital to our economy to support small and local businesses. Picking up seasonal produce from a local farmer is such a wonderful way to do that!
Choose Produce with High Water Content
In the hotter summer months, avoiding dehydration is a key factor in maintaining overall healthy function in the body. Did you know that choosing foods with high water content is a delicious way to keep yourself hydrated? Cucumbers are an ideal food choice because they are 95% water. Cucumbers are also high in nutrients and low in calories. Watermelon is another high-water content food choice; it is 92% water. Check out this refreshing watermelon and cucumber salad for your next outdoor event; your guests will thank you! Pro tip: keep produce fresher, longer by wrapping them in cheesecloth and storing them in the “crisper” drawer of your refrigerator. The cheesecloth will absorb excess moisture which keeps produce fresher while in the fridge.
Get Creative and Have Fun
Eating healthy can be both beneficial and exciting! Make “try it Tuesday” a thing at your house! Every Tuesday, try a new in season fruit or vegetable or try incorporating a food in a new or unique way. This keeps meals and snacks exciting and interesting. For example, if you typically eat a berry parfait with yogurt and granola, switch it up and throw those berries in your next glass of water instead. The esthetic of fruit in water is beautiful and you infuse in your water with nutrients and vitamins by adding berries.
The warmer weather of summer is an exciting time to enjoy the outdoors, connect with friends and family and remain focused on your overall sense of wellbeing. Don’t let the higher temperatures keep you inside! Opt for in season fruits and vegetables to keep you cool, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for earlier in the day to make the most of your summer!
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