January 2013 Newsletter

STAY HEALTHY THIS WINTER 

Cold & Flu Season is Here, Fresh Fruits & Veggies to the Rescue! 

It's that time of year again when everywhere you go, someone seems to be coughing and sneezing nearby. To help keep you healthy this winter (or recover quickly if you've already been knocked out with a bug), we've put together some farmers' market style health tips.  Disclaimer: Always check with your healthcare professional for guidance to best cater to your individual needs. 

Cara Cara Oranges, Mandarins, Grapefruits--Bring 'Em On!

The age old nutrition tip--get plenty of Vitamin C! Citrus, like different varieties of oranges and grapefruit, are excellent sources of Vitamin C which is essential in helping prevent those winter germs from knocking down your door. Vitamin C also helps your body heal and has been shown to  help lower blood pressure and cortisol levels. 

For over 100 years (really!), Arnett Farms has grown beautiful delicious oranges in Fresno, especially for Southern California farmers' markets. Stop in this Tuesday to pick up a bag of Navels or try the Cara Cara! Your family will thank you for the immunity boost with fresh squeezed OJ and orange slice snacks on hand. 

Dark Leafy Greens to Heal

Spinach is an amazing nutritious cool weather California crop you may want to eat more of this season. Spinach, and other dark leafy greens like kale, chard, and mustard greens, are excellent sources of Vitamins K and A. Sometimes Vitamin K doesn't get enough props, but it sure does help us when we need it most. Vitamin K not only promotes bone health (combined with calcium of course), but it also helps you heal from minor cuts and scrapes (which is important during flu season when your immune system is tested). One cup of fresh spinach is about two handfuls and is equal to one veggie serving. Think about how easy it is to toss two handfuls of spinach into the blender with a few berries and OJ for breakfast. Yum! Visit JR Organics from Escondido or Jaime Farms from Chino for a selection of beautiful greens to choose from. 

Go Nuts for Almonds & Walnuts

Almonds and walnuts are known to be the healthy nuts on the block. Almonds and walnuts pack in a serious nutritional punch that helps with inflammation in the body and also promotes heart health. Almonds in particular are a good source of Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant known to keep your immune system, hair, and skin healthy. And remember, walnuts and almonds are packed with healthy fats to keep you feeling full longer. Come see MB Farms this Tuesday for a bag full of nutritious and delicious nuts! 

We sure do hope we've given you a few tips to stay healthy this winter. We're proud to provide the best California grown fresh foods for you and your family. For regular tips and updates, like us on Facebook.  

Kids in the Kitchen This Tuesday

Tuesday 12:30 in Community Quad

Inspiring healthy eating habits in your kids is easy and fun with help from the farmers' market.  Pop over with the kids this Tuesday for a new hands-on cooking demonstration with nutritionist and fitness pro Sarah Beck. Your kids will learn how to make a fresh and healthy recipe highlighting seasonal farmers' market finds. For more fun ways to get your kids engaged at the farmers' market, check out this Farm to Table Activity Booklet.  

See you Tuesday!

-MBCFM