Medical Moment: Summer Superfoods At Farmer’s Market

12 Jul Medical Moment: Summer Superfoods At Farmer’s Market

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Wellness Couselor Bridget Toddonio answers this week’s question: What superfoods are available at the Telluride Farmer’s Market ?”

Wellness Counselor,
Bridget Toddonio

We used to think that “a calorie is a calorie” and that all foods basically impacted our bodies the same way. We now know that this is not true. In fact, there are some foods that are truly SUPER by nature, delivering a huge nutritional benefit to keep us healthy and free of disease.

Summer offers a great array of superfoods, many of which are in season and readily available at our farmers market.

The superfoods below should be easy to find and to prepare for meals or on-the-go snacks.

Blueberries:

Best time to buy: May – Oct.

Why are they beneficial: According to the USDA, blueberries rank fourth in antioxidant content when compared to all other commonly consumed foods. Antioxidants protect us from free radicals (i.e., cancer causing agents) and have been shown to have distinct anti-aging properties. Frozen blueberries still contain approximately the same amount of antioxidants as fresh varieties, making blueberries a sweet treat you can enjoy all year round.

Red Bell Peppers:

Best time to buy: May – Sept, though since red bell peppers are just the mature version of green bell peppers, they might not turn up at your local farmers market until later in the season.

Why are they beneficial: Just half of one red bell pepper contains over 100% of your daily recommendation for immunity-boosting vitamin C and skin-protecting vitamin A. Red bell peppers also contain the phyotochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin which may slow the development of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Tomatoes:

Best time to buy: Late June – Sept.

Why are they beneficial: Lycopein is the antioxidant compound that gives tomatoes their color. According to the American Cancer Association, people with diets high in lycopene may be less likely to develop certain cancers, namely: prostate, lung, and stomach cancer. Lycopene may also lower LDL cholesterol aiding in the reduction of risk for heart disease.

Beets:
Best time to buy: Most tender June – Oct.

Why are they beneficial: While the leafy top portion of beets are known for their cardiovascular health benefits, the bulbous pink portion on the bottom (aka the root) is known for its folate content. Just one serving of beet root will give you approximately 35% of your daily recommendation for folate which has been shown to guard against birth defects, osteoporosis, and colon cancer.

Watermelon:

Best time to buy: June – Sept.

Why are they beneficial: I’m sure we’ve all heard about the hydrating qualities of watermelon, but this summer staple packs a way bigger nutrition punch than you might realize. Despite the fact that watermelons are composed of 92% water, they somehow manage to remain a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber.

Editor’s note: The Telluride Medical Center is the only 24-hour emergency facility within 65 miles.  As a mountain town in a challenging, remote environment, a thriving medical center is vital to our community’s health. For more Medical Moments on TIO, Click Here.