As summer fades and we transition into fall, you’ll notice cooler temperatures and shorter days. These changes can impact your overall health by reducing your sunlight exposure and decreasing your levels of vitamin D. Eating seasonally can help your body ease into autumn and put less strain on your wallet, too. Read on to discover how eating seasonal foods can impact your financial and physical health.
We all know pumpkins are a fall classic, but do you know about the health benefits of foods in the same family? Gourds and squash provide essential B vitamins that improve our skin as colder temperatures roll in. Because they’re plentiful in the fall, gourds and squash are often more affordable. They’re versatile and can be used in nearly any dish. You can steam, roast, or even microwave them. They often pair well with sweeter flavors like maple syrup and cinnamon.
While mushrooms are often available all year long, they’re most prominent in the fall once cooler temperatures hit. Depending on the variety, mushrooms can be packed with various nutrients, from potassium to iron. Fortunately, mushrooms are versatile and can be featured in many cuisines as well as on your holiday table. You can add them to stuffing or risottos, and most varieties can be enjoyed raw in salads.
While summer fruit is hard to beat, fall packs a lot of great flavors into its seasonal options. Apples, figs, and cranberries can all be enjoyed on their own or in a variety of dishes – both savory and sweet. You can often find fall fruits in abundance at local markets and farms. Seek out options that allow you to pick your own, which is often cheaper than the pre-packaged produce at the grocery store. If you can’t use all your fresh fruit before it goes bad, research ways to preserve your harvest. Items like jams, applesauce, and whole frozen fruit can be used well after autumn is over.
Fall greens like kale, chard, and collard greens are full of vitamins and minerals our bodies need to help us transition into shorter days with less sunlight. Many varieties are resistant to frost, meaning you can keep them in your garden well into the cooler months. Growing your own varieties will help you save money versus buying them at the store, too. To use your greens, remove thick stems and thoroughly clean the leaves before adding to your favorite recipes, like soups and stew.
Eating fruits and vegetables can provide several health benefits, as many options are fresher and more nutritious during their peak season. Plus, you’ll save money by purchasing produce that’s in-season instead of items that have been imported, allowing you to feed your family for less.
When you use your Founder’s Rewards Card to buy your fruits and veggies, you’ll earn money – 2%* or 1.5% cash rewards. The card doesn’t have an annual fee, and the cash rewards you earn never expire!
*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the ® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.