Fresh produce will become an important part of your medical weight loss plan. But most of us tend to eat the same fruits and veggies over and over. This can lead to boredom, and to the perception that plant-based foods aren’t very fun or interesting. You can prevent healthy-eating burnout by focusing on utilizing seasonal produce, which will change regularly. Plus, if it’s in season, it’s probably grown nearby! That means you can support local farmers and enjoy fresher food, because it hasn’t been shipped across the country.

This summer, look for these five fruits and vegetables when they’re “in season”. You can enjoy a healthy diet while adding some new favorite ingredients to your rotation.

Watermelon. A cup of watermelon contains only 50 calories, but tons of vitamin A, B6, C, lycopene, and plenty of antioxidants. Plus, if you keep your watermelon in the fridge, or make watermelon popsicles, it’s the most refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

Sweet corn. Some people think of corn as a less nutritious “filler food”, but it actually contains lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins B1 and B5, vitamin C, phosphorus, manganese, and folate. But yes, corn also contains lots of fiber, which will help you to feel full. It’s also an incredibly versatile food that you can use in numerous dishes.

Tomatoes. Some people don’t like tomatoes, because they’ve typically eaten them out of season, picked early, driven across the country, and then artificially ripened before being placed on store shelves. Hit up your local farmers market this summer, and enjoy some fresh, ripe tomatoes. They taste so much better! Plus, tomatoes are packed with carotenoids, which fight against chronic disease (utein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene). Just remember not to refrigerate them; they taste so much better when kept at room temperature.

Cucumbers. Cucumbers are not only a low-calorie food; they’re also packed with B vitamins which help you to fight stress and anxiety. Chop them up in salads, make your own homemade dressings, or place a few slices in water for a refreshing beverage on a warm day.

Green beans. Fresh green beans taste so much better than their canned counterparts! Plus, they’re chock full of fiber, which is a big part of a medical weight loss plan.

And remember, you can call us if you’re feeling bored with your medical weight loss eating plan, or need other forms of support. We’re here to help you succeed!