Eat Right: Here’s the secret to good health

Have you ever noticed how a juicy mango tastes the best in summer or how oranges are the sweetest in winter? That’s because nature gives us the right foods at the right time! Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables is not just about taste — it’s about getting the best nutrition, staying healthy, and making smart choices for our planet. 

Every season, in India, brings a variety of fresh produce, perfectly suited to our body’s needs. But with supermarkets offering everything all year round, we often forget the benefits of eating what’s naturally available. Let’s explore why seasonal food is the best food! 

Eating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to stay healthy. These foods provide the right nutrients that our body needs according to the season. In India, every season brings its variety of fruits and vegetables, making it easy to eat fresh and nutritious food throughout the year. 

Why should you eat seasonal produce?

1.       Seasonal fruits and vegetables grow naturally when the climate is right for them. This means they are fresh and packed with vitamins and minerals. For instance, mangoes in summer provide energy and help in digestion, while oranges in winter give Vitamin C to keep us safe from colds. 

2.       When you eat foods that are in season, they match the body’s needs. Watermelon and cucumber help keep the body cool in summer, while root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes provide warmth in winter. 

3.       Seasonal food is grown naturally, without the need for excess chemicals to speed up the process. This makes them fresher, tastier, and healthier compared to artificially stored fruits and vegetables. 

4.       Eating seasonal produce also helps the environment. Off-season fruits and vegetables require more water, energy, and chemicals to grow. Buying locally grown seasonal food reduces pollution and supports farmers. 

According to Ms Shriya Maini, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce & Management, Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar and Founder, Immuno Eats, local fruits and vegetables are beneficial for several reasons.

“Since they are harvested at peak ripeness and don’t travel long distances, they retain more nutrients and taste better. Local produce aligns with the body’s seasonal needs, such as hydrating fruits in summer or immunity-boosting vegetables in winter. Buying local also supports small farmers, strengthens the local economy, and reduces carbon emissions from transportation. Local produce requires fewer preservatives, as it doesn’t need an extended shelf life for long-distance shipping. This also makes it more cost-effective and fresher compared to imported options. Eating local is a win for health, community, and the planet,” she said. 

She also listed very seasonal fruits and vegetables according to the season.

·         Summer Fruits: Mango, watermelon, muskmelon, litchi, grapes

·         Winter Fruits: Orange, guava, apple, pomegranate, and amla

·         Summer Vegetables: Bottle gourd, cucumber, okra, and eggplant

·         Winter Vegetables: Beetroot, carrot, cauliflower, peas, radish, spinach