Eat Seasonally. Eat Local.

One of the easiest ways to maximize the nutrients in your food is to eat seasonally and eat local. First, let me define what I mean by eating seasonally and eating local. It is food that is produced and consumed in season and in the same climatic zone without high-energy use for growing, processing or storage.

Fruits and vegetables have the highest nutrient content the minute they’re harvested.

By eating local and in season, produce doesn’t have to travel long distances to make it to your plate. Not to mention the benefit of the environment. Eating in season requires less pesticide, herbicide and chemical use to keep the produce fresh and keep the bugs away. The benefits of choosing fruits and vegetables that are in-season include support for local farmers and producers. When you shop at farmers markets, your money goes directly to the farmer and encourages a much more sustainable way of eating.

Remember, the key is not to eliminate the produce that isn’t seasonal/local, but rather maximize produce that is!

It is important to note that seasonal food options can vary, depending on the region in which they’re grown. To check your state’s seasonal produce visit:  https://www.seasonalfoodguide.org/

Summer Vegetables:
Radishes
Arugula
Cucumber
Beets
Bell Peppers
Carrots
Zucchini
Garlic
Corn
Rhubarb
Celery
Eggplant
Green beans
Garlic

Summer Fruits:
Apricots
Avocados
Plums
Cherries
Carrots
Blackberries
Blueberries
Raspberries
Nectarines
Strawberries
Peaches
Tomatoes
Mangos
Melon
Lemon
Limes