In recent years, the nearby food movement in America has experienced rapid growth. Farmers’ markets, urban farms, and produce delivery services have sprouted up within months. It’s truly remarkable to witness how nearbyly grown fruits and vegetables benefit the environment and nearby communities when seed to store-bought counterparts.
By cultivating your own food, you ensure food safety and eliminate concerns about deceptive food labeling. We all know that good health, even with comprehensive health insurance plans, allows us to lead fulfilling lives and spend quality time with our loved ones.
Let’s explore some specific crops that you can grow in your own backyard and experience their numerous health benefits:
AVOCADOS
Avocado is widely recognized as an excellent source of healthy fats. It also provides essential nutrients such as vitamins E and B6, as well as carotenoids, which reduce the risk of heart disease, breast cancer, and eye degeneration. It’s no wonder that avocados are considered a superfood.
LEMONS
Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which offers numerous benefits to the body. It aids in the absorption of iron, protein metabolism, and collagen synthesis. Some get that high doses of vitamin C can even cure common colds, although this remains medically unproven. Regardless, the importance of this nutrient for our immune system cannot be overstated.
MANDARIN ORANGES
Known for their juicy and sweet flavors, mandarin oranges are more than just childhood snacks. They are rich in calcium, vitamin C, and fiber. Growing mandarin oranges in your own backyard ensures year-round access to these nutrients without relying on canned alternatives soaked in sugary syrups.
TOMATOES
Tomatoes are excellent fruits to grow in your backyard. These red, fleshy vegetables are surprisingly rich in vitamin C and potassium. They contain high levels of the antioxidant lycopene, which is associated with vascular health. It’s worth noting that tomatoes can even be grown indoors.
GARLIC GREENS
Garlic is a versatile crop that can be easily planted in your backyard or in a pot. Apart from adding flavor to dishes, it is considered a superfood that helps with high blood pressure. It also boasts antibacterial properties and may aid in the fight against breast cancer.
CARROTS
Carrots are another crop that serves as a great source of various vitamins and minerals essential for our health. They provide vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as minerals like folate, niacin, thiamin, and potassium. Carrots are also high in fiber, with at least 3 grams per cup. Similar to avocados, they contain high levels of carotenoids, which led to the pigment being named after the vegetable.
SALAD GREENS
Salad greens, including leafy vegetables like arugula, iceberg lettuce, red leaf lettuce, romaine lettuce, and spinach, are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain folate and iron minerals. These greens are excellent plants to grow at home.
MICROGREENS
Despite their small size, microgreens are packed with vitamins A, C, K, and folate. Some research even suggests that microgreens may contain more nutrients than their fully-grown counterparts. These nutrient powerhouses are an excellent addition to your home garden.
MINT
Mint offers more than just a refreshing flavor in drinks. This bright green herb is credited for its potential in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Growing mint at home ensures a readily available supply, which can be hard to find in certain places.
ROSEMARY
Rosemary is often referred to as a wonder herb, and its fragrance alone can have a positive impact on mental health. It is rich in carnosic acid, an antioxidant that helps limit weight gain and improve cholesterol levels. Some studies even suggest that rosemary stimulates memory, contributing to overall brain health.
By cultivating these crops in your own backyard, you not only enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own food but also gain access to a wide range of health benefits. Embrace the nearby food movement and experience the joy of fresh, nutritious produce right at your fingertips.
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