Eating with seasons
Have you ever wondered why we crave certain foods during certain times of the year? Why are some foods called ‘comfort’ during the colder months, while we crave fruit, salads and lighter food during the summer months? Could it be that our bodies are innately calling for the nourishment it needs to thrive?
During the winter months when the sun, a natural resource for Vitamin D, is less visible, our brain seeks ways we can fulfill our need to, ‘be happy, feel happy.’
Our gut “signals” or “speaks” to our brain, sending cues to us to crave more sugar, more carbohydrates - anything that will help us release dopamine and serotonin, our body’s “happy hormones.”
The foods we crave, called “Comfort Foods” during the winter months on the surface keep us afloat emotionally. Yet after hibernation, we may leave the colder months with more comfort or room around our waists.
So, how can we maintain a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle that’s best for us? Can eating in seasons create wellness?
Foods that are grown in season are packed with the nutrients and vitamins our bodies need to stay balanced. For example, Cabbage is a vegetable that’s primarily grown in winter.
When temperatures drop, the air pressure drops, and this lower air pressure pushes less against the body than a higher air pressure would. This causes tissues to expand, which can lead to tendons, muscles, and surrounding tissues to expand, and this leads to joint pain, also known as inflammation.
Cabbage is packed with nutrients and loaded with antioxidants that’s good for inflammation, digestion and the heart. Studies have shown that it may help keep cancer away. Cabbage is a perfect addition to our menu during the winter months when we need it most.
Potassium is another vital nutrient most lack in the winter and is normally found in summer fruit. However, eating in season means that in winter we would add Beets to our menu. Loaded with potassium and a good source of minerals like, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, zinc, copper and selenium, beets are another way to add the nutrients your body needs to thrive.
LIst of winter foods we can add to the menu
Beet, Belgian Endive, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage
Cardoon, Carrot, Cauliflower, Celery, Chicory, Clementine
Fennel, Grapefruit, Kale, Kiwifruit, Kumquat, Leek, Lemon
Parsnip, Persimmon, Pomelo, Radicchio, Tangerine, Turnip
Water Squash
As an option, spruce up your salads with fresh plants for added minerals and vitamins.
Add Chickweed, Chicory, Dandelion and Marigold for added benefits for your wellness.
