By Nancy Owais
Fruits and vegetables change with the seasons and so should our diet. The seasonal produce changes throughout the year, giving us many options to choose from when grocery shopping. Getting seasonal produce also ensures the freshness of the food, making your next meal even more delicious. Next time you’re in the grocery store, look for these fruits and vegetables that are in season to help you shed weight and maintain your weight loss all year long.
Winter:
Citrus fruits such as grapefruits, oranges, and lemons are in season. They contain high amounts of vitamin C, helping you ward off illnesses that come with the cold months. Pomegranates are also in season and contain antioxidants and are also anti-inflammatory.
Vegetables to stock up on include greens such as kale and collard greens. They are great to include in salads and are nutrient-dense and low in calories. These greens support your digestion, helping you with bloating. Squash is also in season during the winter months. Popular squashes like butternut and acorn squash are naturally sweet and full of fiber. They are perfect to make soup with or roasted.
Spring:
Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are in season during the spring season. Eating these fruits provides you with antioxidants and fiber that keep you feeling full, longer. Citrus fruits like the ones we see during the winter time are still in season, so you can still enjoy those grapefruits and oranges.
Asparagus is a great vegetable to eat during the springtime. They are low in calories and because they are considered a diuretic, it will help you lose some water weight. Spinach and kale are also in season. Adding these veggies in a salad along with some berries is a nutrient dense meal that is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Summer:
Peaches, plums, and cherries (also known as stone fruits), are full of fiber and help support digestion. You will feel satisfied for a longer period of time. Our summertime favorites are melons such as watermelon and cantaloupe. They are very hydrating and sweet without too much sugar.
Zucchini is a great vegetable to buy during the summer months as they are versatile and low calorie. Enjoy them grilled or roasted for the best flavor. Cucumbers are also in season during the summer. They are also low in calories and keep you hydrated during the heat.
Fall:
If you’re lucky enough to live on the east coast, you know it is the time for apple picking. Apples are a great fruit to eat, especially for its fiber content that keeps you full. Pears are also in season, and like apples, are also full of fiber. Grapes are considered to be nature’s candy. They are great to eat when you need a little boost before a workout.
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts are in full effect during the fall. They are great for weight loss and are packed with fiber, which we know by now keeps you satiated. Root vegetables are also in season during this time. Carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes are filled with nutrients and are the perfect addition to soups when it starts to get cold.
By incorporating fruits and vegetables that are in season, you know that you are getting the freshest ingredients to add into your meals. When you love the food you eat, weight loss becomes that much easier and more attainable. While making your meals, try sticking to grilling, roasting or steaming your vegetables to make sure you are getting the most out of the nutrients they provide. Add color to your meals and include your family in your meal planning. Getting everyone on board with added fruits and vegetables will make the process of grocery shopping and meal planning that much easier.