Benefits of eating in rhythm with the seasons

Harmoniously in season over summer, avocado is not only delicious, it’s rich in essential oils and B-complex vitamins that nourish the skin. Avocados are an incredible skin food, so good in fact they can be used as a main ingredient in DIY face-masks. Lemons are packed with vitamin B, along with vitamin C and phosphorous, all elements that can make skin shine. Add a little lemon to your iced-tea, or seafood platter! Containing high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants, it’s interesting that in season fruits, such as berries and stone fruits are full of skin nutrients which assist in maintaining collagen. Grapes are another fruit in season that have not only a rich source Vitamin C, but also manganese. Together, these compounds can prevent damage due to UV radiation, validating the benefits of eating in rhythm with the seasons.

Think cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines and plums! Not only are cherries a nutritious and tasty fruit; they contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which have an array of health gains. They make a tasty snack, look gorgeous on a table setting, and are also a tasty addition to baked goods and ice-creams! In addition to cherries, expect a lovely range of other stone fruit this summer. Stone fruits flow to a particular season cycle: apricots kick off the stone fruit season, then peaches, nectarines and finally plums. When stone fruits are in season, they give you a delicious source of essential vitamins and nutrients to keep you healthy throughout the summer. For more inspiration check out our refreshing Cherry Nectarine Kombucha recipe

Now you know the benefits of eating in rhythm with the seasons, check out more info below.

5 TOP TIPS FOR YOUR FRUIT PICKS!

1. Look for firm, plump, glossy and deep-red coloured cherries, free from spots and blemishes, with their stems green and intact. Remember sweet cherries are firm and sour cherries are semi-firm.
2. Look for fruit with vibrant-coloured flesh without brown spots or bruises. The sweetest nectarines have small white speckles on the top half. Stone fruit that is under-ripe sometimes have green patches, while older fruit may have wrinkly areas.
3. The fruit you should choose will be firm but supple. Give it a gentle squeeze –it should yield a little under your touch.
4. Most stone fruit continues to ripen after being picked. Keep stone fruits uncovered at room temperature, or on a sunny windowsill for a day or two.
5. Stone fruits are great for jams, jelly, marmalades and preserves. Or create delicious fresh fruit ice-cubes; fruity, juicy, icy jewels for your favourite summer drink!