range of consumed nutrients, according
to dietitian Anthony Glanville, also of
Elevate Sydney Clinic.
“Many people in Australia eat
a very narrow spectrum of foods.
Repeating meals and not varying
ingredients means you may be
missing out on key nutrients in your
diet. Eating more seasonally means
that you will ingest a wider variety
of vitamins, minerals and nutrients,”
says Glanville.
“Additionally, some studies have
suggested that exposing yourself to a
wider variety of foods is important for
your microbiome, encouraging the
proliferation of beneficial bacteria.”
This nutritional advantage is
amplified by the fact that in-season,
locally sourced fruits and vegetables
are often higher quality than remotely
sourced goods that are not in
season. A 2008 study published in
the International Journal of Food Sciences
and Nutrition compared the vitamin
C content in conventionally and
seasonally grown broccoli at the same
stage of ripeness and freshness from
varied supermarkets in Northern New
Jersey, USA. Broccoli collected out of
growing season was found to contain
half the amount of the vitamin C as the
same variety when picked during its
prime season of growth.You can find a full list of what’s in season
in your area at seasonalfoodguide.com,
which also lists details of local farmers’
markets throughout the country.“[Farmers’ markets] have fresh, seasonal
produce, which typically lasts longer
and tastes better. Local foods are
harvested at the peak of their season
when their nutritional content is at its
highest and delivered to markets shortly
after,” says Harasym – so you really
are getting the best for your body, not
to mention your buck. “If you eat in
season and shop at local markets, you
are supporting your local farmers, and
making a positive contribution towards
the local business community as well.
This too will save your wallet some extra
cash, and market foods are often far
less expensive (especially organic) in
comparison to big-name supermarkets.”
As you gradually incorporate more
seasonal foods into your diet, you’ll
find that health aligns with harvest
and you’ll identify new opportunities
to seriously savour your summer.“Additionally, some
studies have suggested
that exposing yourself
to a wider variety of
foods is important
for your microbiome,
encouraging the
proliferation of
beneficial bacteria.”naturalhealthmag.com.au AUSTRALIAN NATURAL HEALTH | 55