Winter Fruits & Vegetables
Eating seasonally has become much more popular over the last few years—with
good reason. Before we had the choice of eating practically any piece
of produce we wanted during any time of the year, people had to consume
what was in season if they wanted fresh vegetables or fruits. So what
changed? Trade, commerce, and science all made it possible for berries
to be eaten year-round and tomatoes to appear freshly picked off the vine
through any season. But is this healthy? While having a balanced diet
of fruit and veggies is important, choosing produce that is in season
can be the best route.
The good news is that California grows about 80% of all fruits and vegetables
consumed in the U.S. That puts residents of Anaheim and the surrounding
areas in the prime spot to snag fresh seasonal produce.
Want to stick to the freshest winter fruits and vegetables? Check out our
short and easy guide below!
Hearty Winter Vegetables
Who says kids don’t love green, leafy foods? Try taking your kids
with you to a local farmer’s market to pick out a bundle of winter
vegetables—you may be surprised at how much more interested they
are in tasting their new finds. Whip up unique recipes for seasonal veggies
for the kids or make a dish to share with friends and family!
Include these seasonal veggies in your next meal:
- Avocados (now harvested year-round in California)
- Beets
- Sweet Potatoes
- Radishes
- Broccoli
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cardoons
- Cabbage
- Chicories
- Escarole
- Jerusalem Artichokes
- Kale
- Fennel
- Cauliflower
- Celery Root
- Squash
- Carrots
- Leeks
Winter-Resilient Fruits
Most people think of fruit as a springtime treat or summertime refreshment,
but the winter can also bring plenty of delicious options. Eating seasonal
fruit can open the door for more enhanced flavors and nutrients, as out
of season fruit has to travel a long way or undergo extensive care to
get to your bowl.
Stick to these seasonal fruits:
- Grapefruit
- Kumquats
- Lemons
- Mandarins
- Navel Oranges
- Persimmons
- Pommelos
- Clementines
- Pears (limited)
On top of eating seasonally, you can eat locally by visiting your area’s
farmer’s market or selecting from the local produce section at your
grocery store. While one fruit may be in season across the country during
the winter, another may be fresh and full of California-grown flavor at
your local farmer’s market. This supports your regional farmers
and puts the best tasting produce on your table!
AHMC Anaheim Regional Medical Center is proud to help build a healthier,
happier community. Take the first step towards a healthier tomorrow by
limiting your fruits and vegetables to the ones naturally grown during
the winter! Want more health tips? Check our blog out in the future.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.