Berry Season is Here
Did you know berries are among the best overall fruits for your health? The pigments that give berries their beautiful color are also good for you: they are densely packed with a variety of phytochemicals and flavonoids. They are also high in fiber, and are relatively low in sugar, so they won’t stimulate severe insulin swings when eaten in moderation.
Here in western Washington, we are lucky to be able to grow various types of berries: blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries to name a few. They don’t need much care, so try growing them in your garden! If you’d rather not, there are many organic farms in the area that allow you to pick the berries yourself, giving you fresh, quality, less-expensive berries.
Berries freeze well, although they lose some antioxidants when frozen. The best way to eat them is in their raw, natural state. They are wonderful in smoothies, on salads, and in oatmeal.
I spoke with an organic farmer in Monroe, who told me we are already one week into strawberry season, and it usually lasts three weeks! So get out there and pick!
Here is a site that lists u-pick farms in our area. Look for an organic farm near you.
