Good health: It’s in season
By Dr. Asha Fields Brewer
Every season has its proverbial “thing.” For the spring, it’s cleaning. For the summer, it’s traveling and relaxation. For the winter, it’s sharing time with loved ones during the holidays. But fall seems to be “just fall.” If we are intentional, especially in this season, we can align with valuable health practices for ourselves and our families.
Familiar Scripture, Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, ESV, shares, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted…”While this entire chapter in Ecclesiastes covers stratified spiritual advice, it also relays some simple physical advice: eat in season.
Because of our technological advancements and global networks, we have become used to having all foods at our disposal all year long. If this was the most beneficial method, then why would there be a specific “harvesting” season for each crop? Furthermore, why would the Bible even bother to make mention of a season for harvest? We generally know the benefits of consuming plant-derived foods. Now let’s consider the benefits of consuming these foods in season.
First, we know that consuming crops in season is often cheaper. If it’s watermelon season in Florida, that means the crop is in greater supply, and the price at the market will go down. Simply put, you get more “yum” for your buck.
Eating in season can also provide you with more quality nutrients per bite. This is because the crop underwent less chemical processing, less travel time from farm to factory to grocer, and less decomposing before you purchased it from your local supplier.
Seasonal foods also support seasonal health needs. Foods higher in Vitamin C naturally have a harvesting period in the winter. Foods higher in sun-protective properties naturally have a harvesting period in the summer.
Lastly, eating the season’s best provides you with a simple way to add some variety to your diet. We can get stuck in the rut of apples, bananas, and green beans; but God gave us so much more to dine on. Try eating foods that are in season, so you can enjoy more of what God has created for you all year long.
Commit to trying something new this fall. Learn more about seasonal produce in your area by doing a simple Internet search, such as, “Florida crops in season”. And remember, good health is always in season.
Dr. Asha Fields Brewer is a creator of healthy conversations. As a national speaker and published author, she teaches the busy and overwhelmed how to live life abundantly. She is the owner of Temple Fit Co. wellness agency, which is home to 25-plus wellness speakers and fitness instructors. Tune in to “Temple Fit Devotions with Dr. Asha” on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. on Hallelujah 95.3 FM.
