It is controversial if eating only seasonal and locally produced food is better for the environment or our health as it is a complex topic and a lot depends on the region (1). It can be difficult to get the good amount of vegetables during winter and it takes a lot of preparation in the summer to conserve food. On the other hand, it still has some benefits to include locally sourced food in our diet:
It is good economically for the homeland
It can make our diet a bit more diverse
(as we always eat different seasonal vegetables)
Summer is a good time to focus on eating more seasonal produce, as it is rich in veggies and fruits. Even when eating seasonally it is important to focus on eating all the colours of the rainbow so we can get all the nutrients our body needs (as the colour is defined by the vitamin).
Purple
Aubergeen, Beetroot, Radishes, Turnips
They are rich in antioxidants which soak up reactive molecules in our body before they have a chance to harm sensitive tissue like blood vessels.
Red and Yellow
Carrots, chilies, Peppers, Sweetcorn, Tomatoes
The vitamin A and C in them promotes immune defense and vitamin C helps in collagen production keeping our skin young and spotless.
Green
Artichoke, Broccoli, Courgettes, Cucumbers, Fennel, Kohlrabi, Marrow
Green vegetables are rich in Magnesium, which makes us healthier by promoting protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Broccoli is also a good source of Calcium, that plays a role maintaining blood pressure and normal muscle and nerve function.
Leafy Greens
Lettuce and Salad greens, Pack Choi, Rocket, Watercress
The Magnesium in them promotes protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Spinach is a good source of Iron that Carries oxygen and makes some important proteins (haemoglobin, myoglobin) and hormones.
Legumes
Broad Beans, French beans, Mangetout, Peas
Beans contain B vitamin that has a role in energy metabolism, carbohydrate / protein metabolism and preventing neural tube defect (birth defect), Iron and Zinc (supporting skin barrier function). Furthermore, it is also a good source of non-animal based protein, perfect if you want to reduce your meat intake.
Fruits
Bilberries, Blueberries, Cherries, Damsons, Greengages, Loganberries, Plums, Raspberries, Redcurrants, Strawberries
Imported: Apricots, Figs, Melons, Nectarines, Peaches
The upper mentioned fruits and vegetables are based on the list by Eat the Season and applicable to the UK and for regions with the same climate.
Prepare to enjoy the lovely gifts of August!
Veggie ingredient from the season:
The stars of August are all the different peppers and chilies coming from the garden. This dish is a fulfilling veg wonder that is perfect for lunch in the summer. Besides pepper this recipe includes beans and coriander that also fresh in season. If it is not enough you can still add some corn and stuff that into the pepper making it even more tasty and satisfying.
Resources:
All seasonal goodies you can eat in August!
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