Shop the Farmers Market

Posted on by TP Mechanical

 

Presented by TP Mechanical | Provided by HORAN

Nothing is more frustrating than fruit or veggies going bad before you are able to eat them. Produce purchased in supermarkets is usually harvested long before it is found on grocery store shelves; in fact, it is estimated that produce travels an average of 1,500 miles from its source before reaching our homes. Because of this, many fruits and vegetables aren’t at peak freshness and need to be eaten within a few days of purchase. Your local farmers market can help bridge the gap from farm to table.

There are several benefits to buying locally sourced food: you support local farmers, you can buy in-season produce and your perishable food items will last much longer because they come fresh from the farm. During the summer months, farmers markets offer a rainbow of delicious and healthy options to choose from; sweet corn, bell peppers and eggplant are all in season during the summer months and can most likely be found in plentiful supply at your local farmers market.

There is often such a variety at farmers markets that you can always find something you’ve never tried before. Aren’t sure how to prepare your newly discovered fruits and veggies? Just ask! Many vendors are passionate about the food they produce and are often more than happy to offer preparation tips and tasty recipes for you to try.

Farmers markets aren’t just for produce. You can also find locally sourced eggs, meat, jams and baked goods at farmers markets. Flowers, crafts and jewelry are popular items as well. In addition, farmers markets are a great way to connect with your community; you can get to know your local farmers, catch up with friends and spend time with your family.

Now that summer is here, check out your local farmers market. Buying local is a great way for you to eat healthier and save money.

Rescue Old Produce

Posted on by TP Mechanical

Presented by TP Mechanical | Prepared by HORAN

The bananas on the counter have turned brown, the apples are no longer crisp and the tomatoes have definitely seen better days. You might be tempted to just throw old, shriveled fruits and vegetables in the trash or compost bin, but pause before you do. Even when they’re past their prime, many fruits and veggies can still be put to nutritious use. In some cases, older fruit and veggies might even be better. For these delicious dishes, you won’t need any tools that you don’t already have sitting in your kitchen.

5 nutrition textures (fruits and vegetables isolated on white)Applesauce – Applesauce is made by cooking chopped apples in a small amount of water on the stovetop. Simmer and mash apples with a potato masher until they reach desired chunkiness. You can add strawberries, pears or other fruits for different flavors, as well as cinnamon or a splash of vanilla.

Breads – Bananas, apples and zucchini are just a few of the fruits and vegetables that can be incorporated into bread or cake recipes. Grate or mash and add to a more traditional recipe, or search for a recipe that is built around a particular fruit. Shredded apple and zucchini are also great pancake additions.

Pies – Traditionally, pies can be made with any type of filling inside a pastry. Use a pre-made or homemade crust and mix together a fruit filling with those soft apples, berries or other fruits. Check out a cookbook for more ideas.

Smoothies – For a cold, nutritious treat, blend a variety of fruits and vegetables into smithereens. Any type of fruit or vegetable can be thrown into the blender and churned into a cold treat. Alter the ratio of different fruits, and try adding milk, yogurt, ice, vanilla or honey to change up the flavors.

Can a Diabetes Diet Include Fruit?

Posted on by TP Mechanical

Although fruit contains sugar, it’s also loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Learn how fruit can be part of a healthy type 2 diabetes diet.

To continue reading article via Can a Diabetes Diet Include Fruit? – Type 2 Diabetes Center – Everyday Health.