A modern convenience of our country is the access to food. Anytime and anywhere you can pretty much purchase whatever your heart desires. While this luxury is often taken for granted it also deters us from making the right choice for our bodies and our environment. Here are some reasons to ditch the daily indulge and start eating seasonally, because not only is it better for you, it’s better for everyone.

     You support local farmers! 

     Knowing where and how your food is grown and harvested can provide a real connection to what you’re putting in your body. It’s one of the reasons “Farm to Table” restaurants market that concept. You feel like you’re doing the right thing and the healthy thing because you are! It’s really a no brainer but shopping locally supports your local economy and generates jobs and business. 

    

    The food tastes better and it’s cheaper! 

    Look, we all get cravings for things that are out of season, but unfortunately strawberries in December pale in comparison to when they’re meant to be eaten. That’s because strawberries require a hot sun and little water to ripen properly, and unlike other fruits, they don’t ripen further once picked. So the store bought fruit ends up being watery and flavorless, which isn’t going to satisfy any craving. Let’s not forget the upcharge for shipping and storing foods that aren’t readily available from your local farms. Also, shopping locally sourced and seasonal produce can support your immune system. Registered Dietitian Liz Ammison writes that the fresher the produce, the more nutrients in that produce. 

    It challenges you to try new foods and recipes! 

    It can be a bit scary trying something new, but exploring your taste buds and saying yes to something you’ve never done before can be thrilling. Also, learning a new recipe often feels inspiring and fulfilling, trust the process and practice a present mindset and the rest will follow. If your concern lies in whether or not you’ll actually enjoy the food your purchased, look for a recipe that is similar to one you already love, or that doesn’t utilize the new ingredient as the main character of the dish. For example; if you love eating summer squash in July, you’ll probably enjoy butternut or acorn squash in November. If you’re nervous to try them simply roasted, try blending them into a soup or as a side dish to a meal you already adore. Nutritionist Abbey Sharp says that trying small amounts of a new food or a food you know you don’t like with a food you enjoy raises the chances of conversion and trying the new food again. It’s not a race, and giving yourself an out is more motivating and healthier than force feeding yourself. 

    Alright, you're convinced and excited to get out three and buy some locally grown, organic produce that’s perfectly in season but how do you know what’s available right now? Follow this guide to make sure you’re using every tool to succeed. 

Make a list of some food you know you’ll want for the week. Staples first, always. Then you have room to play around depending on your budget. 

Research farmer’s markets in your area. Websites like seasonalfoodguide.org makes it easy to know what’s available near you. 

Get out there and shop! Make it fun! Markets are a great place to shop and spend time with a friend. Enjoy a pastry while you wander from booth to booth. Talk to the vendors about how they like to eat their product. Use a cute basket or bag to carry your goods. Let yourself be swept up by the experience and atmosphere. Every part of food should be enjoyable. 

Get home and start cooking! 

See? It’s not as bad as you thought it would be, and it’ll only get easier. Now you can share a locally sourced and seasonal dish with loved ones and feel physically, mentally, and emotionally satisfied. 

    Curious about prepping your new produce and refrigerator? Check out this guide to get your home ready for your farmers market haul!

    Good luck!