Take Your Power Back Thursday
You may have heard about eating seasonally, but do you know why?
There are several reasons why it is a good idea.
Full disclosure: When I recommend eating seasonally, I am talking about doing it in a way that highlights the seasonal foods local to your area. I don't restrict myself to ONLY local foods in season. But I do enjoy more of these foods when seasonally appropriate. I would be a sad girl without avocados year-round! 🥑🥑🥑
Food production practices have made many foods available year round. While this can be convenient for us, it is important to realize that the nutrient density in foods grown out of season my be significantly decreased.
This study found that vitamin C levels in broccoli were almost 50% higher when grown in the fall (it's natural season) vs. the spring.
Eating seasonally often means eating locally, which is better for the environment. Foods don't need to be flown across the world, and therefore have less environmental impact
Bonus... you are supporting your local farmers!
Ok...here come (perhaps) the most convincing reasons....
Locally grown foods that are in season taste better!
If you don't believe me...try it!
Commercially sold produces is grown for shelf life and uniformity, not flavor. Typically the varieties are less flavorful than the varieties that haven't been modified for production purposes.
And...
It's less expensive!
Fruits and veggies that are in season are abundant, and therefore will cost less. Have you ever noticed berry prices in the winter? Waaay more expensive than in the summer.
Getting Started
If you aren't ready to plant that garden just yet, or if you are like me and want even more veggies, two great ways to get local, seasonal foods are farmers' markets and CSA's.
Shopping at your local farmer's market will provide you with local bounty! The fresh flavors will delight you! It also supports your neighbors and can expose you to foods you might not already be familiar with. It is also fun to learn about other local businesses that exhibit there and support them.
Joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is one of the best ways to get local fruits and veggies in. Typically, you purchase a membership according to the size of box you would like. A bonus is that you will likely learn about new varieties and maybe find some new favorites, while also supporting your local farmer!
Take Action
Visit your local farmer's market! That's it! Simply spend a little time getting fresh air and checking out what is local to your area.
Extra Credit: Buy something new you have never tried before and let me know what it is!
Last updated: MST
You may have heard about eating seasonally, but do you know why?
There are several reasons why it is a good idea.
Full disclosure: When I recommend eating seasonally, I am talking about doing it in a way that highlights the seasonal foods local to your area. I don't restrict myself to ONLY local foods in season. But I do enjoy more of these foods when seasonally appropriate. I would be a sad girl without avocados year-round! 🥑🥑🥑
Food production practices have made many foods available year round. While this can be convenient for us, it is important to realize that the nutrient density in foods grown out of season my be significantly decreased.
This study found that vitamin C levels in broccoli were almost 50% higher when grown in the fall (it's natural season) vs. the spring.
Eating seasonally often means eating locally, which is better for the environment. Foods don't need to be flown across the world, and therefore have less environmental impact
Bonus... you are supporting your local farmers!
Ok...here come (perhaps) the most convincing reasons....
Locally grown foods that are in season taste better!
If you don't believe me...try it!
Commercially sold produces is grown for shelf life and uniformity, not flavor. Typically the varieties are less flavorful than the varieties that haven't been modified for production purposes.
And...
It's less expensive!
Fruits and veggies that are in season are abundant, and therefore will cost less. Have you ever noticed berry prices in the winter? Waaay more expensive than in the summer.
Getting Started
If you aren't ready to plant that garden just yet, or if you are like me and want even more veggies, two great ways to get local, seasonal foods are farmers' markets and CSA's.
Shopping at your local farmer's market will provide you with local bounty! The fresh flavors will delight you! It also supports your neighbors and can expose you to foods you might not already be familiar with. It is also fun to learn about other local businesses that exhibit there and support them.
Joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is one of the best ways to get local fruits and veggies in. Typically, you purchase a membership according to the size of box you would like. A bonus is that you will likely learn about new varieties and maybe find some new favorites, while also supporting your local farmer!
Take Action
Visit your local farmer's market! That's it! Simply spend a little time getting fresh air and checking out what is local to your area.
Extra Credit: Buy something new you have never tried before and let me know what it is!
Last updated:
