Six incredible benefits to eating seasonally

Did you ever consider where all the food your family consumes comes from? Most probably each ingredient had to travel a very long distance. They have to be stored for quite some time before arriving at your plate, including those products which have not been processed. But it´s in your hand to change this and start eating seasonal fruits and vegetables.

But what´s that about? Yes, there is another way of eating vegetables and fruits which is more natural, respects the biological cycles, it is healthier and (good news!), it’s inexpensive. Very simple and without tricks, the secret is to eat local seasonal fruits and vegetables. You only need to follow a calendar when you go for groceries. These are some benefits you will get from it.

Three benefits involving healthy choices

You will increase and balance your vitamin intake. As you will eat more variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, the combination of seasonal products makes a perfect blend of calories. But first things first, you will make sure you eat enough fresh vegetables and fruits.

You will eat the needed nutrients each time of the year. Nature provides the type of food we need in each season. For example, we tend to get a cold in winter, it´s not a coincidence that this season brings oranges, stocked with vitamin C. By late fall, pumpkin season is in October, so caloric and nutritious. In summer we need to stay hydrated, and this season brings plenty of watery fruits, like watermelon.

You will keep track of the calorie intake. When you eat seasonal local food, you become more mindful of what you eat. This reflects increased awareness about the nutrients in your food. This will also impact other aspects of eating, including calories. You will probably reduce the amount of processed food you eat, even without noticing. Last but not least, as you will get used to skipping some products during certain periods and choosing other ingredients instead. As a result, you will have more control over binging and other unhealthy behaviors.

Three benefits involving the economy and community

You will save money. Local seasonal fruits and vegetables are cheaper because they do not need long-distance transportation or long time storage. They are not stored for a long time, neither frozen. There are fewer steps and “change of hands” from the moment they are cultivated until you buy them.

You will connect with your community. When you choose to eat seasonal fruits and vegetables you will start to connect with the producers in your area. Visiting the farmers market will be part of your grocery routine and you will be in direct contact with the people that produce your food. This will give you a great feeling. To top it up, by purchasing from the local producers you will cooperate with the local economy.

You will have a lot of fun. Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables will make the groceries and cooking activities an extra plus and they will become incredible quality time. You will learn to adapt recipes to seasonal products, think new dishes with the available vegetables or make jam with seasonal fruits to give away throughout the year. Being in the kitchen will have a new wonderful meaning.

Are you ready to start eating seasonal fruits and vegetables? All you need to do is to check which vegetables and fruits are seasonal in your area and make your favorite recipes around the products available for you at the moment!