Eating Seasonally

There is nothing like biting into a juicy slice of watermelon on a hot summer day, or cozying up with some butternut squash soup as the snow falls outside. There’s a reason that people say certain fruits and vegetables “just taste better” during a season- because they do! Though the advancements that have taken place in the agriculture industry have allowed us to have seasonal produce all year round, consuming fruits and vegetables in their specific season can have numerous benefits on the body. Mother nature crafts produce at different times throughout the year so that man can reap the benefits associated. I’m going to take you through which fruits and vegetables grow best in which season, and how to eat throughout the year to a better you.

Winter Wellness

With the frigid air and the stress or excitement that occurs during the winter season, our health may often times take a back seat. Dry skin, lack of energy, and a low immune system are symptoms that we associate with the “winter blahs.” But what if I told you that by eating the right foods, you could minimize these pitfalls and work with your body to stay fresh and hydrated all winter long?

Keep your skin hydrated and your immune system strong by increasing your intake of Vitamin E. This super power vitamin contains numerous fat-soluble molecules with antioxidant powers that can help with immune function, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers. Get your fill of Vitamin E with creamy avocados, and dry roasted sunflower seeds.

The benefits of kale are endless, its season is not. Kale grows best between December and January, right about the time you might need it the most! The Vitamin A content in this leafy green may boost cell turnover, while its Vitamin C works to keep our immune system strong throughout the holidays.

Spring Awakening

As the snow begins to melt and the trees begin to bloom, spring is a time for new food and new awakenings. As if we are spring cleaning our bodies, produce that grows successfully in the spring time has numerous detoxification and anti-inflammatory benefits. Wake up your skin and brighten your eyes to a plethora of fresh fruits and vegetables that will make you feel as pretty as a flower.

Strawberries contain a high amount of Vitamin C, which makes them a perfect go-to spring time snack that boosts collagen production. Try eating a fresh spinach and strawberry salad to boost cell renewal and repair, as well as cleanse and hydrate the body. I like to wash, cut, and freeze strawberries in a freezer bag so I can have fresh strawberry smoothies all season long.

Glutathione is an important antioxidant found in plant (and animal products), including asparagus! Asparagus season begins in late February and is at its prime during the month of April. These stalks contain a generous amount of iron to promote energy, healing, and infection fighting. Be sure to eat this tasty vegetable shortly after picking/purchasing because it does not store well.

Summer Hydration

With fun family barbecues, beach trips, and relaxation at the pool, the key to staying healthy and energized through the summer is hydration hydration hydration. Luckily, numerous fruits (and vegetables!) grow rapidly in the summer to provide a plethora of nutrients. Protect your body from sun damage and keep your blood flowing by trying these sensational summer fruits and veggies, as well as increasing your water intake.

Many people forget that a tomato is actually a fruit! And if your family is anything like mine, we can’t get enough vine ripened tomatoes in the summer. This backyard gem is packed full of the phytochemical lycopene, which can play a part in fighting against cancer, as well as Vitamin C. Tomatoes can be a summer super hero when it comes to defending the skin from UV damage, as well as hydration! They are also super easy to grow in your own backyard. Try them raw in a salad, or cooked with a drizzle of olive oil to increase lycopene absorption for luminous skin all summer long.

Being that it is 92% water, watermelon is an extremely hydrating fruit that is perfect for a slimming summer snack. Like tomatoes, watermelon also have lycopene for healthy skin, as well as iron and Vitamin C! These two nutrients work together to maintain healthy red blood cell production and luscious hair. It also contains citruline, an amino acid that boosts blood flow to the muscles, making it helpful for those summer workouts. Watermelon is my go-to summer fruit because it is low in calories, juicy, and extremely refreshing on a hot summer day.

Autumn Revival 

After a long hot summer, the body is in much need of restoration and renewal. Unlike the leafy greens that sprout in spring, the fruits and vegetables that thrive in the fall come in all sorts of colors. Everyone loves to go apple picking in the fall, but did you know that mushrooms, grapes, and cranberries are all autumn all-stars? These, plus many others are foods that fight stress and recharge your body to prepare for the upcoming cooler temperatures.

I recently won a cooking competition for my acorn stuffed acorn squash recipe and it is absolutely one of my favorite vegetables. This unique vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrients, ranging from niacin for DNA repair to calcium for healthy bones and teeth. Acorn squash season is usually from October to December, so don’t be fooled by the big chain supermarkets that have them all year round. Reap the benefits of these orange beauties while they’re at their best, so you can be at yours!

Carving pumpkins is something I look forward to every October, but nowadays I am even more excited for pumpkin seeds! Pumpkin seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of zinc, which is essential for hair growth and and strong nails. Going back to school or work after summer can be a stressful time and fruits and vegetables that contain stress reducing nutrients can be just what you need for a good night’s sleep. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent snack for before bed because they are low carb and are an excellent source of tryptophan, the calming, sleep-producing amino acid. Next time you carve a Jack-O-Lantern, save the seeds and roast them in olive oil, salt and pepper for a delicious snack.