Vitamins and minerals in fresh local produce have been found to be higher in quality and effectiveness than many supplements. Do you have a fresh supply of local produce this summer? A bag of fresh fruits and vegetables can easily be obtained at farmers markets this growing season.
The bag of produce many only cost a few dollars. Many people have to choose between buying groceries or paying for bills and medical care? Do you have enough money to afford both food and your medical expenses? Over 60% of adults with chronic diseases are facing hunger and simply do not have the resources to support both food and medical problems.
What is your favorite fruit or vegetable? Farmers markets have a wide range of zucchini, onions, cucumbers, cauliflower, red and green cabbage, green beans, corn, kale, collards, tomatoes, peppers, water melons, and cantaloupe.
Where does your food come from? Most produce in grocery stores comes from other states and sometimes other countries. Local produce is picked at the peak of ripeness, often within 24 hours of sale. The flavor, taste, and moisture is better than if the produce traveled miles before the sale.
Polyphenols are found in fruits and vegetables. Their health benefits fight diseases such as cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers are finding the gut is 70% of our immune system with thousands of microbes needed to protect us from diseases. You can protect your gut by consuming a high variety of local fruits and vegetables.
A variety of fruits and vegetables from your local farms have been found to provide a better balance of these gut microbes. Bad gut microbes cause inflammation and obesity. Good gut microbes fight obesity, cancers, diabetes, strokes, and heart attacks.
The nutrients in fresh local foods are the highest as the nutrients begin to lose their essential value soon after picked. Local foods come from the same watershed you live in with the same soil and climate called an ecoregion. This food shed starts and ends in the same food cycle. This can reduce allergens and inflammatory processes causing chronic diseases. Refer to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_food for more information.
Mary Ann Wietbrock is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and a personal weight loss coach experienced in Fitness & Nutrition & Medications. She can be reached at www.cardinalelements.com or call 317-410-9140.
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