Farmer’s markets are a good choice for your health

The area’s farmers markets are in full swing with more vegetable and fruit crops coming into market each week. The markets are fun, colorful places where you can get the freshest fruits and vegetables, shop for lovely local, handmade arts and crafts and perhaps even listen to live music. They are worth a visit just to see the variety of local products on display. But don’t go home empty-handed. Here are four reasons why shopping at one of our area farmers markets is a great choice:

1. Fresh is best. The produce sold at farmers markets is often still growing just a day or two before you see it on the stand. That puts those fruits and veggies at their peak of flavor when you buy them. Fresh produce is full of antioxidants and other substances that promote health.

2. New foods can be fun. Ever had gooseberries or kohlrabi? You may find some unique produce at a farmers market that you won’t see at a supermarket. Share the adventure of trying new foods with your kids – it can help them enjoy a healthy variety of foods as they grow up.

3. You can talk to the experts. The farmers who grow these foods can give you ideas about how to store, prepare and serve them.

4. Local foods help local folks. Foods and other products sold at farmers markets may cost less than in the supermarket. Plus, the money you spend at a farmers market circulates locally.

To get the most from your farmers market visit, try to be flexible. If the food you want isn’t ready to harvest yet, try something else. And don’t worry about produce that isn’t perfectly shaped or has minor blemishes – it’s still packed with flavor and nutrients.

So, beginning on Saturday, June 2, stroll through the Blaine Gardener’s Market. The opening of the market will take place in Pizza Factory parking lot at 738 Peace Portal Drive, and thereafter will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the H Street plaza through October.

Courtesy of PeaceHealth Medical Group