HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital Illinois Fruits and Vegetables

Illinois is one of the leading states in the U.S. for pumpkin production. This fruit is low in calories and a great source of vitamin A and potassium, which can protect your skin from sun damage and lower your risk of cancer and eye disease.
 
Health benefits of summer harvest:

• Apples provide necessary soluble fiber which helps lower your cholesterol level, your risk of diabetes, and your risk of developing asthma. Tip: leave the skin on because it contains half the fiber of the apple.
• Beets have been linked to significant improvement in blood flow and lower blood pressure if eaten consistently.
• Corn provides valuable B vitamins such as folate, which is important during pregnancy.
• Garlic is known to boost the immune system to reduce symptoms and duration of the common cold. It also contains antioxidants that may help prevent dementia.
• Yellow Squash is low in calories and contains no cholesterol, fat and sodium. Tip: do not peel the skin – that’s where most of the nutrients are stored.
• Zucchini helps keep thyroid hormone levels stable and, thanks to its vitamin C, it can strengthen vision. It’s also versatile; it can be grilled, roasted, braised, pickled, baked, or eaten raw.

 
The University of Illinois Extension Service is a great resource for nutrition and wellness information. Visit  https://extension.illinois.edu/global/nutrition-and-wellness to learn more.