Healthy Aging with Seasonal Foods in Santa Clarita
September marks National Healthy Aging Month, a time to celebrate the importance of physical and mental wellness in older adults. Here in Santa Clarita, it’s the perfect month to embrace a balanced, nutritious diet with an abundance of fresh, local seasonal produce. Santa Clarita is home to a number of vibrant farmers’ markets, making it easy to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables to support healthy aging.
A nutritious, well-balanced diet is key to maintaining energy, heart health, and cognitive function as we age. With seasonal produce readily available, Santa Clarita residents can take advantage of fresh options that not only taste great but also contribute to overall wellness.
Let’s dive into some easy ways to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your daily routine, as well as where to find fresh produce in Santa Clarita.
5 Easy Tips for Eating More Fruits and Veggies Daily
Use these five quick tips to eat more fruits and vegetables every day.
1. Keep Fresh Fruit on Display
Keep a basket of local, seasonal fruits – like apples from Santa Clarita’s Canyon Country Farmers Market – on your kitchen counter. Keeping delicious fruit in eyesight serves as a reminder to eat more fruit throughout the day.
2. Make Smoothies
Some seniors may struggle to eat crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples or pears, because of tooth or gum discomfort. Rather than biting into a ripe apple, throw it into a blender to whip up a refreshing fruit smoothie.
Sip in the fall season with this delicious cinnamon apple smoothie recipe. All you need are apples, milk, cinnamon, and sugar!
3. Explore Santa Clarita’s Farmers’ Markets
Break out of your food routine by exploring the wide variety of fruits and vegetables offered at the farmers’ markets. Each visit is a chance to discover new, local produce. Try yellow or orange fruits, and leafy greens grown right here in Santa Clarita and neighboring locales.
4. Add Extra Veggies & Fruit to Your Favorite Meals
Another simple way to consume more fruits and veggies is to add them to your favorite meals you already enjoy eating. Top your salad with sliced grapes, dried cranberries, or chunks of pineapples. Add more veggies to your soup or stew. When making your sandwich, load up on more veggies, such as tomatoes, celery, and kale.
5. Set a Healthy Reminder
Set a reminder on your phone to enjoy healthy snacks like apple slices with peanut butter. With so many fresh options at Santa Clarita’s markets, it’s easier than ever to swap chips for something nutritious.
Top 4 Farmers’ Markets in Santa Clarita for Local Produce
Santa Clarita offers a variety of local farmers’ markets where you can find seasonal, fresh produce perfect for healthy aging. Here are four popular options:
- Canyon Country Farmer’s Market: Seasonal produce, artisanal foods, flowers, and local growers.
- Old Town Newhall Farmers’ Market: Diverse fruits, vegetables, herbs, cheeses, and lively atmosphere.
- Santa Clarita Certified Farmers’ Market: Some of the best fresh produce in the area, eggs, honey, meat, etc.
- Valencia Farmers Market: Another excellent resource for fresh and seasonal goods.
Visiting Angels: Your Local Resource for Better Aging
Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita supports seniors in leading active, healthy lives. Our caregivers can assist with shopping for fresh produce at local markets or help prepare nutritious meals at home. From meal planning to transportation, we make healthy aging easier.
If you or a loved one need assistance, contact us today at (661) 263-2273 and learn how we can support your journey to wellness.