As summer rolls into Wisconsin, our local farmers' markets come to life. Known for their wide selection of fruits and vegetables, farmers' markets are a great way to support local farmers while boosting your health. Fresh produce is packed with vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy body. These nutrients support our immune systems, help us generate energy from the foods we eat, keep our bones strong, and so much more!
The Power of Fiber
Local, fresh produce is not only rich in vitamins and minerals but also in fiber! Fiber offers numerous health benefits, from helping you feel fuller longer to reducing the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Unlike other nutrients, fiber isn't broken down by our stomachs. Instead, it passes through our digestive system, playing vital roles throughout our body.
Daily Goals for a Healthy Body
To maintain optimal health, aim to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. This amount is recommended to keep your body healthy and feeling great. While increasing your fiber intake, remember to drink plenty of water to prevent stomach upset.
Seasonal Produce Guide
Visiting your local farmers' market can help you save money while increasing your fiber intake. Here's a guide to help you choose fruits and vegetables throughout the summer:
Early Summer (June - July) Produce:
- Strawberries
- Lettuce
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
And more!
Late Summer (August - September) Produce:
- Apples
- Carrots
- Kale
- Onions
- Watermelon
And more!
Sources
Ioniță-Mîndrican CB, Ziani K, Mititelu M, et al. "Therapeutic Benefits and Dietary Restrictions of Fiber Intake: A State of the Art Review." Nutrients. 2022;14(13):2641. Published 2022 Jun 26. doi:10.3390/nu14132641
EatRight: Easy Ways to Boost Fiber in Your Daily Diet
Wisconsin DHS: Farmers Market Nutrition Program Food Chart
About the Blog Author
Hi, I'm Ashlyn! I’m a Wisconsinite, born and raised, with a love for summer, the outdoors, fresh produce, and good food. I love food so much that I chose to study nutrition at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, where I graduated with a Bachelor's in Biology with a Nutrition Emphasis in 2023. Currently, I'm pursuing a Master's in Nutrition and Dietetics and completing my internships to become a registered dietitian. I enjoy providing nutrition education and look forward to a career of showing people the amazing benefits of food!