5 foods to buy in August
Updated: Jul. 16, 2019
Heading to the market this month? Be on the lookout for these five fresh foods to buy in August
1. Peaches
Nothing signals the arrival of late summer quite like a basket of fresh, juicy peaches. Whether you enjoy this stone fruit on its own, baked into a cobbler or even grilled on the barbecue, you’ll be happy to know that it’s an indulgence that carries health benefits as well as great taste. According to Foodland Ontario, one medium-sized peach is only 37 calories and is a source of immune-boosting vitamin C. They’re also a good source of fibre and vitamin A.
Looking for some peachy cooking inspiration? Check out our best healthy peach recipes.
2. Blackberries
Strawberries may be the superstars of summer, but when it comes to boosting your health, you’d be wise to make some room for blackberries in your fridge, too. Packed with antioxidants, these dark juicy berries can help reduce inflammation, as well as protect against cancer and heart disease. Blackberries have a tart flavour that’s perfect for homemade jams and berry pies, but you can also toss a handful into your morning smoothie for an added nutritional punch.
Feeling adventurous? Try growing your own blackberries so you can enjoy them fresh next summer.
3. Corn
Getting ready for a late-summer barbecue? You can’t go wrong with fresh corn. Whether you’re serving it boiled or hot from the grill, you’ll reap the benefits of health-boosting carotenoids, which can help protect you from age-related macular degeneration, as well as type 2 diabetes.
One study by a team of researchers in Finland found that in a group of more than 4,000 non-diabetic participants, those who ate the most of a particular type of carotenoid found in corn-as well as peppers and citrus fruits-were able to cut their diabetes risk by 42 percent. Corn can also help you boost your fibre intake.
4. Nectarines
Not a fan of the fuzziness of peaches? Now is a great time to stock up on their close relative, nectarines. This versatile stone fruit can be eaten whole or chopped and added to cereal, yogurt and even salads. Nectarines are packed with even more vitamin A than peaches, as well as a good dose of vitamin C. But don’t ditch the skin on this low-cal snack-it will help boost your dietary fibre.
Wondering what else to do with your nectarines? Try these 10 delicious ways to cook with stone fruit.
5. Grapes
Now is the time to take advantage of ripe Coronation table grapes-they’re only available until mid-September in Ontario, and October in British Columbia. The Ontario Tender Fruit Producers suggests selecting grapes that are blue in colour and firmly attached to their stems. With only 60 calories per cup, grapes make a refreshing summer treat, whether you’re eating them by the handful or pairing with cheese or other summer fruits. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, thiamin and resveratrol, a compound naturally found in grapes that has been touted for its antioxidant and cancer-fighting benefits.
Related:
• 5 ways to go organic on a budget
• 8 secrets to shopping at farmers’ markets
• 5 habits for eco-friendly food shopping
Eat your way to better health
Food Cures is your definitive guide to help heal, ease, or prevent 57 ailments with common foods and nutritional supplements. Settle nausea with ginger. Give your memory a boost with oatmeal. Lower your blood pressure with bananas. You’ll find dozens of detailed food “prescriptions” to help treat everything from allergies to migraines to ulcers and more. Plus, you’ll be amazed at how many favorite foods are on the menu: beer, red wine, dark chocolate, shrimp, guacamole, peanut butter…That’s because healing yourself with food is not about eating less, it’s about eating more.
Newsletter Unit
