Summer is well underway, but with the 4th of July past, now is the time we settle in and try to shed some of those pounds gained during the early summer frenzy. As a general rule of thumb, it is always good to eat locally grown foods for a variety of reasons. These include everything from more time on the vine to less environmental impact and lower cost. Many doctors claim that a diet high in plant based foods will keep you healthy and help you maintain the perfect weight. Here is a list of 5 local “must eats” for most of the U.S. this summer.

Berries

I know, I know, they are a little expensive, but if you are going to eat them, now is the time. Not only are they less expensive than usual, but their health benefits are many. Berries are powerful antioxidants, which are believed to be effective in neutralizing carcinogenic agents. They are also high in vitamin C to strengthen your immune system for the winter ahead.

Avocados

Even though they are less local than I would like (primarily California and Florida), these delicious gems could not be left off the list. They are a perfect source of healthy fat, fiber, magnesium and even antioxidants. Healthy fats are known to keep you full longer, so if weight loss is on your mind, you may want to consider starting your day with one of these nutritious, filling treats.

Peppers

These delicious vitamin C packed fruits (yes, technically they are fruits) can and should be enjoyed all summer. Vitamin C is a known immune booster, but even more impressive is the fact that they are believed to stop the mutation of cells as well as “detoxify cancer-causing compounds”.

Corn

Few things scream summer like the wonderful and inevitably messy activity of eating corn straight from the cob. Not only is it ridiculously inexpensive, but corn is also a good source of soluble fiber as well as elements thought to deter things like macular degeneration, heart disease, cancer and even birth defects!

Tomatoes

These globes of goodness can be paired with almost any meal and are jam packed with some excellent nutrients. They are a great source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, lycopene and other beneficial substances which are believed to be good for the skin, eyes and may even fight or prevent certain types of cancer.

For more information about what’s in season near you, visit theSeasonal Ingredient Map at www.epicurious.com.

Sources:

Epicurious
http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/seasonalcooking/farmtotable/seasonalingredientmap