The guidelines of a healthy diet include a variety of fruits and vegetables – also knows as “eating a rainbow.” Summertime means readily-available local fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as an abundance of farmer’s markets where you can buy the produce (and other tasty treats).
The general idea is that the brighter the natural colors of a piece of fruit or vegetable, the more nutrients it contains, such as antioxidants and phytonutrients. Some common ones include beta-carotene and lycopene. Benefits include boosts to your immune system, vision, skin, bones, heart, lungs and joints, as well as helping to fight cancer.
In addition to helping support your physical health, farmers’ markets support the health of the local economy, community and the environment.
Some of the foods that are in season in the Mid-Atlantic in the summer include broccoli, cabbage, collards, cucumbers, eggplant, lima beans, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, snap beans, squash, sweet corn, tomatoes, beets, carrots, apricots, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, peaches, nectarines, pears, plums, and raspberries.
Find a local farmer’s market near you and start exploring and enjoying a colorful experience.
FIND YOUR VYBE