June has arrived, so it’s time to find out what the best seasonal foods are for this time of year.  Remember, if you want to make the most of the food on your plate and give your body a boost of nutrients, then it’s best to eat foods that are fresh and in season.

The three easy to understand reasons for eating seasonal foods are these:

- The fresher the food, the more nutrients remain intact, allowing your body to gain essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

- Avoid paying a premium for food that has travelled from the other side of the world, thus helping to reduce CO2 emissions.

- Allow nature to rebalance it’s cycle of food production.

During the month of June, the best vegetables that are local to the UK are: artichoke / asparagus / aubergine / broad beans / broccoli / carrots / courgettes / fennel / mangetout /rocket / runner beans / spring onions.  The best fruits are: cherries / strawberries / gooseberries.  If you want to avoid pesticides and other harsh chemicals, organic is better, unless you are fortunate enough to be able to grow your own without the use of such nasties.  It’s amazing how much better food tastes when it is fresh, seasonal and full of nutrients! 

I love this time of year.  Flowers are blossoming (my bright red geraniums look stunning lined-up and overhanging my balcony – very Italian), and I hear everyone talking about eating salads!   Nutritionally, if you want to make the most of the food on your plate and give your body a boost of nutrients, then it’s best to eat foods that are fresh and in season.

The three easy to understand reasons for eating seasonal foods are these:

- The fresher the food, the more nutrients remain intact, allowing your body to gain essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

- Avoid paying a premium for food that has travelled from the other side of the world, thus helping to reduce CO2 emissions.

- Allow nature to rebalance it’s cycle of food production.

During the month of May, the best fruit and vegetables that are local to the UK are: asparagus / broccoli / rocket / spinach / spring onions / rhubarb / kiwi fruits.  If you want to avoid pesticides and other harsh chemicals, organic is better, unless you are fortunate enough to be able to grow your own without the use of such nasties.  It’s amazing how much better food tastes when it is fresh, seasonal and full of nutrients!