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Benefits of Eating Foods in Season

By Joe Boland

February 29, 2024

As winter's chill gives way to the gentle warmth of spring, a vibrant shift occurs not only in our environment, but also on our plates! Embracing seasonal eating offers a delightful way to experience the freshest, most flavorful produce while reaping a multitude of benefits.

Seasonal eating refers to the practice of consuming foods that are currently in season, typically based on the local climate and growing conditions. This approach to eating emphasizes the availability of fresh, locally grown produce during specific times of the year. 

The idea is to align your diet with the natural cycles of the seasons. Keep reading to learn how to practice this healthy eating habit.

What Is Seasonal Eating?

Seasonal eating simply involves incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet that are harvested at their peak during specific times of the year. This means enjoying asparagus in spring, juicy peaches in summer and hearty root vegetables in fall, for example.

Many communities have embraced the concept of farmers markets, where local farmers sell their fresh, seasonal produce directly to consumers. Additionally, some people practice seasonal eating by joining community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, where individuals or families can subscribe to receive regular deliveries of fresh, locally grown produce throughout the growing season.

Overall, seasonal eating is a holistic approach to nutrition that connects individuals with the natural rhythm of the environment and promotes healthier, more sustainable food choices.

Benefits of Eating Foods in Season

• Enhanced Flavor and Nutrition: When fruits and vegetables are ripe and in season, they boast their peak flavor and nutritional content. They're naturally sweeter, juicier, and packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

• Taste and Flavor: Seasonal produce is fresher and usually tastes better because it doesn't have to travel long distances. It's harvested at its peak, resulting in better flavor and texture.

• Environmental Friendliness: Choosing locally sourced seasonal produce reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation and refrigeration. This translates to a smaller carbon footprint and a more sustainable food system.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Seasonal produce is typically more affordable due to its abundance and shorter supply chain. You can stretch your grocery budget further while enjoying delicious and healthy meals.

• Variety: Embracing seasonal eating encourages a varied diet. Different seasons offer a diverse range of fruits, vegetables and other foods, promoting a more balanced and interesting diet.

Best March Foods

March marks the beginning of spring, bringing forth a delightful selection of fresh produce. 

The availability of seasonal foods can vary based on factors like climate and region. However, in general, here are some foods that are commonly in season in March in various parts of the world, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere:

Leafy Greens

Tender spinach, kale and arugula are perfect for salads, wraps and smoothies.

Root Vegetables

Beets, carrots, radishes and turnips add vibrant color and earthy flavors to your dishes.

Early Spring Fruits

Ripe strawberries and tart rhubarb signal the arrival of spring's bounty.

Citrus Fruits

Enjoy the last hurrah of juicy oranges, grapefruits and tangerines, bursting with vitamin C.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts provide a healthy dose of essential nutrients.

Herbs and Spices

Chives, cilantro, dill, mint and parsley are herbs that can be used as added spices to different dishes.

Other fruits and vegetables that are good to eat in March include:

• Asparagus

• Cabbage

• Leeks

• Peas

• Swiss chard

• Kiwi

• Lemons

• Pineapple

• Strawberries (in some regions)

• Avocado (in some regions)

Keep in mind that this list is a general guideline, and the actual availability of these foods can depend on your specific location and climate conditions. Additionally, modern agricultural practices and global transportation mean that some foods are available year-round, although they might not be as fresh or as sustainably sourced when out of season.

To get the freshest and most flavorful produce, consider shopping at local farmers markets or joining a CSA in your area. These sources often provide a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables and other products directly from local farmers.

By embracing seasonal eating, you can savor the freshest flavors, support local farmers and nourish your body with nature's finest offerings. So, this March, explore the vibrant tapestry of spring produce, and discover a world of delicious and healthy possibilities!