Black women are more likely than other demographics to die from cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, lupus and several cancers. A large component of health is about what you eat. Eating seasonally this spring is a great tactic to make sure you have the best and freshest food at your dinner table.

One easy way to know what is in-season is by visiting your local farmers’ market. Most only sell fruits and vegetables that are grown and harvested in the area. Another option is by checking seasonal food guides where you live.

Health Benefits to Eating Seasonally

There are numerous benefits to eating with the season this spring.

Increased Nutritional Value 

One of the biggest benefits is that in-season produce has traveled a shorter distance from farm to table. The longer fruits and vegetables have spent being transported, the more they lose their quality and vital nutrients. 

Better Taste 

Local, in-season produce will always taste better. Think about it: A vegetable that has traveled for a week will taste different than a vegetable that was harvested yesterday. 

Adds Variety of Nutrients to Your Diet

Another benefit of eating seasonally this spring is that it increases the variety of nutrients in your diet. As each season changes, so do the foods that grow. Eating in-season produce will inevitably diversify the types of fruits and veggies on your plate, as well as the types of minerals and vitamins you digest.  

Spring Time Fruits and Veggies

Discover the fruits and veggies you should stock up on this spring and a few fun, springtime recipe ideas that are perfect for your in-season produce.

Arugula

This peppery tasting green should be stored in the refrigerator to preserve it. Try it out in this springtime inspired Mediterranean Shaved Asparagus Salad.

Beets

These cold-weather crops grow in spring and fall, and they grow quite fast. Try out the sweet vegetable in this salad recipe that makes them the star of the show.

Carrots

This versatile vegetable can make dips, soups, salads, sauces and cakes. Serve them as the ultimate side dish in this buttery and sweet recipe. 

Grapefruit

Although these are excellent in the winter, you will find grapefruits still growing strong in the spring. Add this tart fruit to your salsa recipe to liven up your average chip pairing.

Mangoes 

You’ll find a wide variety of mangoes available during spring. Utilize their sweetness in this refreshing spring salad.

Pineapple 

When you add pineapple to your diet, you’re getting a dose of Vitamin C and fiber. Try it out as a dessert in this decadent cobbler recipe.

Radishes 

Radishes grow in a rainbow of colors and are a great option for eating seasonally this spring. They’ll shine bright in this simple, yet tasty sandwich recipe. 

Spinach

This leafy green is considered a superfood as it is packed with vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, folate and potassium. Enjoy it for lunch or dinner in this delicious springtime salad. 

Strawberries

The antioxidants in strawberries help boost your immune system and keep you healthy as the seasons change. You can eat them alone, in a smoothie, in the salad recipe above or in this refreshing strawberry oatmeal bar recipe.