The world today runs on the fast lane. We are always, almost, late and are forever catching up. We have become so fixated in ‘catching up’ we barely have time to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. This trend, sadly, has infiltrated our eating habits as people are too busy, too short of time to be keen to plan and prepare meals that are not only good for their health but taste even better! With this blog, we delve into the treasure trove of goodness that is fresh produce and highlight why everyone should take a pause and accept the gift that Mother Nature continues to provide to nourish mankind.
- Antioxidant Rich
Fruits and vegetables are scientifically known to be packed with antioxidant. Antioxidants are best known to scavenge for free radicals in the body cells to reduce damage caused by oxidation. A consistent diet high in antioxidants assures of prevention from heart diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, allergies, diabetes among others. Locally available fresh products rich in antioxidants include: cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, beetroot, Brussels sprout, pulses such as peas and chickpeas, berries and avocados.
Weight Management
Naturally, fresh produce is low in calories and fat and high in fiber making them ideal for diets and meals specifically designed to support weight loss. The fiber found in fruits and vegetables for instance helps you stay full for longer hence killing the desire to eat every other time. The fiber found in fresh produce also helps manage the digestive system and keep it in perfect health.
- Nutrient Variety
Different fresh produce carries different essential nutrients that will help you meet your body’s nutrient needs when incorporated in your diet and ensure your health and overall wellbeing. Nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, some vitamin B, dietary fiber, potassium and folate are readily available in fresh produce that one can source locally.
- Prevention and Management of Lifestyle Diseases
‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food’ Hippocrates said. Studies show an alarming rise in diseases, considered lifestyle diseases, which are in some part attributed to what we consume. Fresh produce has been touted to lower risk of these diseases that include heart disease and stroke through the nutrients they provide. Antioxidants and potassium for instance help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels and improve general health. Studies have also shown that high intake of fruits and vegetables help lower the risk of one getting certain types of cancer. The antioxidants are believed to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Overall Health
The saying ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’, couldn’t be further from the truth. Nutrients packed in fresh produce such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants ensure our immune system is in check to protect against infections and illnesses. Consumption of fruits and herbs has been tried and tested and found effective in managing colds, flu and other common ailments. Fruits have been known to lessen the duration of illnesses and allowed patients to regain their strength and wholesome health faster.
- Graceful Ageing
With ageing comes the breaking down or the emergence of life situations that can best be managed through regular intake of nutrients found in fresh produce. Different vitamins and nutrients assure to protect our eyes and skin from degeneration and improve overall brain health. Fruits and vegetables also contain high water content that help keep our body organs such as the skin and kidney healthy.
Tips to ensure constant Fresh Produce Intake.
Seasonal shopping: Each season presents different produce especially fruits. Always opt for fruits and vegetables that are in season for your kitchen. Not only are they affordable, but they are also assured to be fresh and rich in flavor.
Explore local markets: You will be amazed at the wide variety of fruits and vegetables available in your nearest farmers market outside of the usual ones that you know. Make it a weekend goal to visit your local market and shop right for your home.
Plan and Prepare meals ahead: To avoid the temptation of reaching for instant unhealthy foods due to the time and work it takes to prepare fresh foods, plan early. Wash, chop and pack fresh produce to keep you supplied over a period of time conveniently. Weekly would be ideal.
Explore Preparation and Presentation:
Get creative and experiment in the kitchen. Serve your fruits and vegetables creatively and/combine them with other foods and savor the burst of tastes, flavors and aroma you will discover.
Your wellbeing and that of your loved one’s rest on the choices you make in the kitchen. Fresh produce and all it present is the perfect way to show yourself and the people you care about true love. In due time, the benefits will be evident!