Why eat seasonal food?
I recall a lightbulb moment, when I realized that tomatoes contain lycopene, which is a phytonutrient that helps protect your skin from sun damage when consumed. Certain plants make lycopene and other carotenoids to protect themselves from sun damage, so when humans eat the fruits of those plants, carotenoids are deposited in the skin and appear to have a similar effect, blocking the damage from UV light.
Of course, we need this in the height of the summer, which is when we really should be eating tomatoes in abundance.
Foods in season are rich in powerhouse nutrients because they are harvested at the peak of their nutritional value. This means you get the most vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from seasonal fruits and veggies.
Eating with the seasons supports your body’s natural nourishment needs: nature provides what our bodies need in each season. Hydrating and cooling foods in summer, and hearty and warm foods in winter. Seasonal eating helps our bodies adapt to the changing weather and supports overall well-being.
New Season Extra Virgin Olive Oil has the highest levels of polyphenols, especially if it derives from green olives, and so the greatest health impact comes to you during the winter months, when you need it the most.