Seasonal Eating in Summer
Dr. Karen Spencer-Dees, PhD, Holistic Board Certified

Why does seasonal eating impact your health? Eating foods at their proper peak enhances their natural nutrients and enzymes. On the flipside, when we process foods to be eaten off-season, their natural benefits are compromised.

Nature has a natural rhythm which is why fruits and vegetables fully develop at varied times throughout the year. By respecting nature’s process, you begin to nourish and balance your body in a way that synchronizes with your own body with its natural rhythms.

A good example of this is cucumbers vs cauliflower. Which of these foods would you choose to eat in summer vs. winter? Cucumbers are naturally cooling – which is why they are great for consumption in the summer. Cauliflower is a hardier, making it a naturally tasty food for nourishment in the winter.

An easy and fun way to find out what is growing in season is to shop at your local farmers market. Not only are you supporting your local growers, but it takes the think work out of figuring out what is in season. Once there, navigate your choices based on your natural choices. After all, your body knows what it needs.

Eating seasonally and regionally enhances your overall nutrition. Enjoy these tools to create a customized summer seasonal eating plan for your family:

About.com provides readers with an easy way to learn what is seasonal in your region.

EatWellGuide.org provides a great Seasonal Food Guide, clickable by state!

Epicurious.com offers a free interactive map allowing you to see some of the foods are seasonally & regionally at their peak.

BBCGoodFood.com offers a more extensive chart (fruits, vegetables, meats, etc..) of in-season eating

Have great seasonal summer recipes? Share your input and comments!

To Contact Dr. Dees:

Karen Spencer Dees, Ph.D.
Board Certified Holistic Nutrition
www.karenspencerdees.com
DrDees@comcast.net
http://opp.sunrider.com/DrKarenSpencerDees/
978-443-3039