As spring begins, fresh produce comes into season, and to your local farmers market! May is the perfect moment to "eat green" and embrace the abundant, fresh produce that nature generously offers this time of year.
In Season Produce:
- Asparagus: Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and potassium.
- Artichokes: Artichokes support digestion, regulate blood sugar, and promote liver health, while also being a good source of fiber.
- Green Garlic: Green garlic boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation, and is a great source of iron.
- Carrots: Carrots are a good source of vitamin A and C, as well as a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Beets: Beets support heart health and gut health. They are also rich in antioxidants and fiber.
The Local Advantage:
- Unmatched Flavor
When grown locally, produce is harvested at the peak of ripeness rather than being picked prematurely for long-distance shipping. Many items at local markets have been harvested within just 24 hours of your purchase, delivering that unmistakable just-picked taste.
- Superior Nutrition
Local food travels a shorter journey from farm to table, preserving its important nutrients. In contrast, produce imported from distant regions often spends days or weeks in transit and distribution centers before reaching your store, during which time nutritional value steadily declines.
- Community Investment
Every dollar spent with local farmers circulates within your community, supporting neighboring businesses and services, and strengthening the economic fabric of your region.
- Environmental Stewardship
Choosing locally grown foods helps preserve essential farmland and green spaces in your community, protecting the landscape and ecosystem that make your region unique.
At Astera Cancer Care, we understand the important connection between nutrition and wellness. Incorporating fresh, seasonal produce into your diet is a simple yet powerful step toward supporting your overall health. Our dedicated nutritionists can help you plan a nutrition plan with local fruits and vegetables as part of your comprehensive care plan.