In the United States and other countries around the world, households are celebrating fall harvest. This is the time of year when many fruits and vegetables ripen, so growers can enjoy an abundance of fresh produce in preparation for the winter months. Unfortunately, though, the practice of growing your own food has vanquished for the convenience of picking fruits and veggies from the aisles of your local supermarket.
However, what many of us don’t know is that those same fruits and veggies that you get from the grocery store may not be as fresh or as natural as we might think. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know where our food comes from or how it was grown, which makes growing your own food even more enticing. If you have ever thought about growing your own food but were either intimidated about the work involved or not sure if the nutritional benefits were even worth it, here are several points that might change your mind
- You’ll know where your food comes from. The average meal in the United States travels about 1500 miles. Therefore, when you do grow your own food, you’ll lower your carbon footprint and have more transparency with what you put in your mouth.
- You’ll have complete control over whether or not you want to use any pesticides or fertilizers on your crops. Some pesticides have been linked with some forms of cancer.
- You’ll eat healthier. Fruits and vegetables in grocery stores are picked before they ripen to enhance their shelf life. Fruits and vegetables that are picked when they are as ripe as they would be in a garden have more nutrients.
- It can help you de-stress. You’ll get a little bit of exercise and have the chance to spend some time outdoors. Did you know that Coach K from Duke University gardens to deal with the stress of being the head of a premier college basketball program?
- It’s something you can do as a family. Growing a garden is very easy, and you can pass healthy habits down to your children.
The Hope4CancerĀ® Institute incorporates organic vegetables and fruits in its nutritional program to support its treatments for a reason. Locally grown produce can help you maximize the nutrients you get when eating fruits and veggies. If you’re looking for a way to get healthier, get more exercise, and spend time with your family, growing your own food is a good way to get started.