Seasonal Food for August
August already? Summer is flying by too quickly. As summer moves along, so does the seasonal produce. Here are the fruits and veggies that taste best in August!
- Peaches
Peaches are juicy and delicious!! They been shown to help prevent obesity-related diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. The bioactive and phenolic compounds in peaches also work with the anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory components to help reduce the risk of bad cholesterol. And you can look to peaches for doses of The fiber, potassium, vitamin C.
- Watermelon
It’s in the name! Watermelon helps you hydrate! This tasty on-the-go fruit is just 46 calories per cup and contains nutrients like carotenoids, vitamin C and cucurbitacin E. Pro tip: add lime and mint to your watermelon for the perfect back to school pool party treat.
- Swiss Chard
Tired of your usual mixed greens? Give swiss chard a try! It is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C, as well as a good source of magnesium, potassium, iron, and dietary fiber. The range of antioxidants can be seen right in the colors of the stalk. Mix up your salad with a new taste!
- Cauliflower
Cauliflower is an excellent source of Vitamin K, a fat soluble vitamin. Vitamin K keeps the bones healthy and also prevents losses in bone mineral density which could lead to osteoporosis. Cauliflower contains certain compounds, glucoraphanin, sulforaphane, glucobrassicin, and gluconasturtiin, which translates to cauliflower aids in cleansing your body. Cauliflower rich supplies of calcium, phosphorus and selenium help boost the immune system, too! That’s a whole lot of good for such a yummy veggie!
5. Beetroot.
Beets are delicious. And beautiful. Many nutrients in just a few calories. They also contain inorganic nitrates and pigments, both of which have a number of health benefits. They are a great source of iron and contain potassium, betaine, magnesium, folate, and Vitamin C and a good dose of nitrates.
6. Zucchini
Did you know that Zucchini are great for blood sugar? There are a whole bunch of nutrients in zucchini that benefit human blood sugar regulation including the B Complex vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, and magnesium!
7. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are classified as a fruit in some states and as a vegetable in others… that’s interesting! When it comes to tomatoes, Lycopene is probably THE most important nutrient in a tomato. It’s said that Lycopene fights cancer, aids in eye and skin health, helps keep inflammation away, and can even help reverse the damage of smoking.
Here is a delicious in season recipe that you will love: Zucchini Noodle and Vegetarian Meatballs
Head to your local farmer’s market and get these delicious veggies while they’re in!