11 Local Fruits That Will Boost Your Summer
Why buy imported fruits when you live in Lebanon and have access to a range of delicious fruits right then and there!
There are many reasons why it is preferable that we all start eating local and encourage our friends and family to do so as well. We encourage buying local and organic whenever possible, particularly soft skin fruit because of increased pesticide absorption.
Here are 5 main reasons why!
1- Support local farmers.
Buying local produce encourages farmers and creates local jobs along the food chain.
2- Boosts local economy.
This is an easy one but we don’t have to pay foreign countries to import fruits and vegetables that compete with local production.
3- Local produce is fresher, healthier and tastes better.
Sometimes it takes 24 hours only for the local produce to reach the supermarket shelves, when imported fruits and vegetables have probably been sitting in cold storage for days or weeks.
4- Connects local communities.
By buying directly from the farmers, you create a bond between you and the person who is dedicated to growing healthy fruits and vegetables that will feed you and your family.
5- Local is better for the environment.
Local food travels much less than imported products and uses less fuel and energy to reach the end consumer.
So on your next visit to the market, here is what should be on your shopping list for the summer.
1- Plums
The list of benefits of plums is endless, most importantly these fruits are high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and are great for regulating your bowel movements.
2- Watermelon
Who does not love to eat watermelon on a hot sunny day at the beach? Watermelons are mostly water and provide a necessary hydration during the summer. Each refreshing bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6, C, antioxidants and amino acids.
3- Cantaloupe
The seeds of cantaloupe provide a measurable amount of omega-3 fat as alpha-linolenic acid. The fruit is also very rich in beta-carotene along with vitamin c and folate.
4- Bananas
There are over 25 reasons why you should be eating bananas. Whether it is before or after a workout, when you are down, or suffering from PMS… always reach out for a banana.
5- Grapes
Grapes contain powerful antioxidants know as polyphenols that have been shown repeatedly to prevent many types of cancer.
6- Strawberries
Between antioxidants, magnesium and folate, strawberries are the stars of the berry family.
7- Peaches
With peaches, comes an additional benefit, which is their high fiber content! With their soft skin and sweet flesh, peaches are a summer favourite.
8- Subair or Prickly Pear
(Photo credits: https://www.britannica.com/plant/prickly-pear)
Rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers, prickly pears are an important choice for your digestive system’s health.
9- Figs
Figs are high in fiber as well as a good source of several essential minerals, including magnesium, manganese, calcium (which promotes bone density), copper, and potassium (which helps lower blood pressure), as well as vitamins, principally K and B6.
10- Mulberry
Mulberry is considered an important remedy in Chinese medicines. The main health benefits of mulberry can be derived from its juice, which is full of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. It has been shown to prevent cancers, reduce the risk of blood clots and strokes as well as cleanse the liver and strengthen the kidneys.
11- Apricots
Apricots are a great choice to protect your heart from a wide range of diseases. Their high content of vitamin c, potassium and fiber all contribute to good cardiovascular health.
Enjoy!
Resources:
https://www.ecowatch.com/10-reasons-why-you-should-eat-local-1882029859.html
https://www.thespruce.com/reasons-to-eat-local-foods-4015507
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=17
http://www.foodmatters.com/article/25-powerful-reasons-to-eat-bananas
http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-health-benefits-of-mulberries/#gref