The Benefits of Fresh Food For A Healthy Lifestyle

A few years ago, the thought of living in a post-apocalyptic world like that in The Last Of Us would’ve seemed fictional. But the havoc Covid-19 wrecked suggests the reality might not be that different. To fight the pandemic and lower the risks of contracting the virus, many health professionals recommended adopting a healthy lifestyle, starting with fresh food.

Harvard Medical School found a direct link between a healthy diet and lower Covid-19 risk and severity. Since then, more and more people have started consuming unprocessed, nutrient-rich, and chemical additives-free food.

But the question arises, is eating fresh food a gimmick, or does it affect your body positively? If you’re being bombarded by Amazon fresh promo codes no matter where you go on the web, there must be a reason. 

Well, you’d be glad to know that it’s the latter, and science has also proven it. To learn more, keep reading about the benefits of eating fresh food:

Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Processed food remains controversial; some speak in its favor, while others are severely against it. Regardless of the side you’ve chosen, know that processed food doesn’t provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs for optimal health.

It’s loaded with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring your body meets the daily requirements.

For example, consuming one Brazilian nut provides enough selenium for the entire day. Similarly, eggs and livers are high in choline, which supports your liver health.

Better for the Environment

National Geographic suggests that humans are living beyond their means. That’s alarming, considering the population in the world is growing by almost 1% per year.

It won’t be long before homo sapiens have exhausted the planet’s resources, forcing everyone to fight over crumbs (as shown in almost every sci-fi/horror TV show.)

So, before Station 11 becomes a reality, act responsibly and start eating fresh produce. And if you’re asking how one connects to the other, it’s simple; since farmers grow fresh food ethically and sustainably, it reduces carbon emissions and the use of pesticides and fertilizers.   

Helps You Manage Your Weight

It’s no secret that those looking to manage their weight go to great lengths to produce the desired results. But the simplest technique often hides in plain sight – like fresh produce.

Fruits and vegetables have low calories and high fiber, which makes them excellent for weight management (not to confuse it with weight loss).

But the thing is, there are so many options that choosing which fruits and vegetables to consume becomes overwhelming. Well, the rule of thumb in the wellness industry is to eat fewer calories than your body needs to manage your weight. 

Fulfilling and Tasty Snacks

When you hear the word ‘snack,’ your mind immediately goes to Snickers, Cheez-It, or Ritz Crackers. If someone even suggests munching on fruits and vegetables in the evening, you’ll give them dirty looks.

But you shouldn’t because fresh produce can help prevent you from feeling hungry between mealtimes. And if you’d like to get your hands (or mouth) on fruits and veggies that expert dietitians claim are the most fulfilling, remember the following:

• Bananas
• Blackberries
• Carrots
• Celery
• Pears
• Zucchini 

All the fresh produce mentioned above is brimming with multiple nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, creating a sense of fullness. 

Healthy for Your Skin

Looking at Korean celebrities, you’d think they’ve stumbled upon an elixir that makes them look half their age. But you’d be surprised – and happy – to know about the secret behind their glowing skin. 

To break the suspense, it’s fruits and vegetables. 

That’s right.

Your favorite K-Drama actors and actresses eat fresh produce to fight inflammation and improve skin and hair health. And they’re not shooting in the dark; studies suggest that eating more fruits and vegetables can reduce skin-related issues.  

Beneficial for Local Farmers

Local farmers are an integral part of every community and deserve your unwavering support.

Think about it: in a world where junk food and processed items have captured the market, someone is working hard to put healthy and fresh food on your table. 

And that ‘someone’ happens to be a local farmer. That’s one of the significant advantages of eating fresh produce. 

Not only are you making a wise choice for your loved ones, but you are also contributing to boosting the economy; it’s a win-win situation.

Keeps Your Dental Health in Check

Spinach, kale, and lettuce have essential vitamins and minerals for your teeth and gums. And you don’t necessarily have to eat them raw.

For example, you can put either of the veggies in your sandwich to enhance your dental health. Other fruits known to promote healthy teeth include apples, carrots, melons, and cucumbers. 

Food for Thought? Make Sure It’s Fresh

The advantages of fresh produce are far too many to ignore, especially for those interested in adopting a healthy lifestyle. Physical and mental benefits aside, you can support local farmers by purchasing fresh food.

Happy healthy eating!