It’s hard to believe how quickly 2023 came and went, but we are excited for 2024! Now that
the holidays are behind us, we are settling into the quiet of January and many of us are focusing on choosing healthier habits for the new year. Shopping at the farmers’ market is one way to help achieve that goal. Here are some ways shopping at the farmers’ market can lead to a healthier lifestyle (adapted from: https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/healthtips/7-ways-farmers-markets-can-lead-to-a-healthier-life/):
1. Fresh fruits and vegetables: People who eat more fruits and veggies tend to live longer
and have lower risk of chronic diseases, like heart disease and obesity. A diet rich in
fruits and vegetables can decrease blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart
disease/stroke and lower your blood sugar. BONUS: Shopping at Farmers Markets
means shopping locally and in season, which ensures the best-tasting fruits and
vegetables around!
2. Find the Fiber: The wonder nutrient, exclusively found in plant foods such as fruits,
vegetables, beans and whole grains, is the preferred food for your helpful gut bacteria.
Since 70% of our immune system lives in our gut, feeding our helpful gut bacteria their
favorite food may mean a stronger immune system for us in return.
3. Variety is Key: No single fruit or vegetable provides all the nutrients you need to stay
healthy. The wide variety of fruits and vegetables found at farmers markets will ensure
you get a diversity of essential nutrients. Some examples include:
Apples are rich in fiber, which can help manage your blood sugar levels and
promote good digestion.
Blueberries have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent
cell damage.
Carrots contain vitamin A. Vitamin A is vital for healthy eyesight, and getting
enough of this nutrient may help prevent vision loss.
Butternut squash is a good (and delicious) option for people with diabetes. This
is because they are low on the glycemic index, so they may help regulate blood
sugar.
Kale is a great source of calcium, potassium, vitamins K and C, and various
antioxidants. These are all good for maintaining bone health.
4. Easy Ways to Pay at the Markets: Various payment options are available at YFM to help
take advantage of the wonderful items offered from our farmers and makers, including
EBT/SNAP, Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons (FMNP), Senior Farmers Market
Nutrition Program (SFMNP) coupons. Most vendors also take credit cards and venmo and/or applepay.
5. Meeting your neighbors/socializing: Making new friends as well as meeting up with old
friends can help boost happiness and reduce stress. After all, fostering social connections is one of the key ways to stay healthy.
6. Fresh Air: As you take in fresh air, you increase the oxygen levels in your brain, which in
turn helps you feel more energized and better able to concentrate.
Keep an eye on our social media for more healthy eating and healthy living tips! How does
visiting the farmers’ market help you to live a healthier lifestyle?