Farmer’s Market Goodness

I am a Farmer’s market type of person. It is the perfect Saturday morning activity that sets the stage for a delicious and nutritious Saturday night dinner.  I love the whole atmosphere. Everyone is in such an upbeat and lively mood. I get a contact high just being there.

The sights, the smells, the vibes, oh my…and the sounds too.

It is wintertime now but I would like to share some fond memories of last summer’s market fun…and to make it look like we are learning something; I’m throwing in some GOOD for you Farmer’s Market facts…ENJOY!!!

GOOD for Your Body:  There is nothing healthier and more natural than food in its most natural form. Foods typical of Farmers markets such as fruits and vegetables are chock full of vitamins and nutrients. These foods are also high in soluble fiber; which helps lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and therefore the risk for cardiovascular disease, Polyphenols; a group of plant chemicals that may prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Monounsaturated fats which are good for the heart as well as the brain.  Farmer’s market produce is typically fresher and thus more nutritional.

GOOD for your Mind: Besides the nutritional benefits, there are social and psychological ones too. Places like Farmers Markets are a delight to the senses. Research has shown that the multisensory stimulation typical in a vibrant community activity such as shopping in such a place can help keep your brain young. It is the perfect place to rub shoulders with your neighbors. A whole branch of psychology, known as community psychology, has grown up around the idea that a sense of community is important for personal well-being. Connecting with those around you can promote a sense of belonging, a feeling that you matter, and a healthy trust in your fellow citizens.

GOOD for the Community: When you buy locally you are pumping money directly into the pockets of area farmers which goes right into the local economy of your community.

GOOD for the Environment: Food from farmers markets are usually from smaller farms which require less energy for production. Also you can pretty much be assured that the healthy food you purchase hasn’t traveled long distances and undergone lots of packaging. This in turn, saves in energy consumption and this lessened time means more nutrients are preserved.

If you haven’t been to a Farmer’s market before, I highly suggest it…..the food tastes great and the people are wonderful. A good time will be had by all!

Wishing you all the best!

Strawberryindigo.

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***Related articles***

Hollywood Farmer’s Market ( An excellent place, if you are ever in Portland…stop on by)

What Makes a Good Farmers’ Market? (civileats.com)

Putting the “Farmer” back in Farmers Market: Lessons from Portland to Paris (portlandfarmersmarket.wordpress.com)

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