Summer is the perfect time for BBQs, swimming, gardening, camping – and fresh foods! From green beans and watermelon to grapes and tomatoes, the abundance of healthy foods that pop up at farmer’s markets and stores at this time of year is quite a feast.
Even if you haven’t visited your local market yet, you might be wondering just how many healthy foods are available in the summer and which are the best in regards to overall nutritional value. After all, it can be overwhelming when you’re walking through aisles of sweet berries and bright-colored vegetables.
Let’s take a look at four healthy foods that you should be eating this summer; from their nutritional content to important health benefits, these items are sure to become summertime favorites at your table!
Watermelon
A summer staple, watermelon is low in calories but high in nutritional value and water. Watermelon is over 90% water, making it the perfect fruit to eat after a long day in the sun. Not only are you able to rehydrate while enjoying a tasty treat, but you’re also providing your body with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, magnesium, Vitamin C, and potassium.
As a bonus, watermelon also contains a compound called lycopene, which is beneficial in decreasing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. All that being said, this low-calorie treat is perfect for getting more water into your diet, as well as a hearty serving of antioxidants!
Peaches
These fuzzy, medium-sized fruits pack a powerful nutrient punch! With less than 60 calories per peach, you’ll be loading up on vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, niacin, Vitamin K, and potassium while also incorporating some fiber into your diet. The riper they are, the more disease-fighting benefits they have – so try and enjoy them at peak freshness!
Studies have also shown that peaches can boost your immune system, decrease blood sugar levels, and even help reduce the uncomfortable symptoms that come along with allergies.
Bell Peppers
Raw peppers are also almost composed totally of water (over 90%) and are an excellent source of fiber. From green and red to orange and yellow, these sweet peppers are also loaded with necessary nutrients.
Vitamin C packs a big punch – 169% of the recommended daily intake – as does Vitamin A, folate, and Vitamin B6. Bell peppers have been known to improve the eyes’ health and decrease the risk of anemia (especially if eaten along with foods high in iron). A well-known antioxidant known as capsanthin is found in high levels in peppers and gives those red peppers their brightness!
Tomatoes
Typically called a vegetable (even though it’s technically a fruit), tomatoes are one of the most popular summertime foods, and for a good reason! These fiber-rich and low-carb fruits are full of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, folate, and beta carotene.
Tomatoes improve heart health, as well as aiding in the decrease of inflammation in the body. Research has also shown that eating fresh tomatoes can benefit skin, as they are high in lycopene, and that compound may protect the skin from sun damage.
Coming in an array of colors and sizes, there are plenty of fresh tomatoes each summer to choose from – so add them into your dishes as you please!
Whether you buy your fresh fruits and vegetables from the store, a local market, or you’re even growing your own, you’re sure to enjoy a bounty of flavor and color – and thankfully, a behind-the-scenes addition of more vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy nutrients!
