Friday, June 26, 2009

Produce and Nutrition at the Farmers Market

The following was originally published on the website of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, and is reproduced here for you courtesy of the MDAR.


Did you know...

  • A good diet includes at least five fruits and vegetables every day.

  • Fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C and fiber.

  • Vitamin A and beta-carotene are needed for fetal and infant growth.

  • Vitamin C builds healthy bones, teeth, and skin and helps to heal wounds and burns.

  • Eating fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk for cancer.

  • Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat, sodium and cholesterol.

  • Fruits and vegetables are fast, easy and a good value.

  • Fiber is found in the skin and seeds of fruits and vegetables.

  • A good diet includes fiber.
Farmers' Market Sources of...


Vitamin A & Beta-Carotene
cantaloupe
carrots
sweet potato
green leafy vegetables
pumpkin
spinach
winter squash

Vitamin C
broccoli
Brussels sprouts
cabbage
cantaloupe
cauliflower
green pepper
strawberries
tomatoes


Fiber
apples
asparagus
blackberries
carrots
cherries
corn
cauliflower
pears
potatoes
strawberries
tomatoes

Cruciferous Vegetables - High in Vitamins A, C, and Fiber
bok choy
Brussels sprouts
cauliflower
onions
cabbage
broccoli
kale
kohlrabi
turnip