Let’s take a breather on stress and focus on something else this week.  Autumn is officially here with the arrival of the Autumn equinox and I can feel the change.  Can you?

The breezes are cooler.  The colors of the leaves are changing.  Also you may already have begun to notice as you visit your local grocer or farmer’s market so are the seasonal fruits and vegetables that are starting to become more readily available.

Taking advantage of your area's seasonal fruits and vegetables has many benefits and advantages.  Some you may already know about.  Here is a list of those:

1. Improved flavor and freshness since harvesting can be done at the peak of ripeness.
2. Nutrients are much higher because your produce spends less time in transit and storage preserving nutritional value.
3. Provides a diverse diet as it naturally rotates a variety of fruit and vegetables throughout the year.
4. Better taste combinations with seasonal produce pairing well together naturally.
5. Allows and encourages exploration into your regional culture culinary experience with traditional and local recipes highlighting flavors of the season.
6. Supports local farmers and the community, which helps the local economy and creates jobs.
7. Encouraging a year round variety of crop rotation, preserving biodiversity instead of mono crop planting.
8. Reduces environmental impact associated with food transportation as well helping to lower costs which is added on for long-distance transportation and storage.
9. Connection to the seasonal rhythms of your own local area.
10. Less pesticide and chemical use may be required being it is grown in its natural environment.
11. Reduces food waste associated with long-distance shipping and storage.
12. Eating a variety of these seasonal fruits and vegetables is also great for your health providing you with a wide range of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Can you think of any more benefits?  I would love to add them to the list.

Please share