Tips for Fruit Consumption in the "Off-Season"

One week down!

So far, the reports I have received from everyone have been great! While everyone is expressing some challenges, the commitment level of everyone is fantastic. This is one of the most determined and dedicated groups I have had in a challenge so far. I am really looking forward to the next 11 weeks!

I have already had a topic request, so this week I will touch on tips for getting your fruits in, especially when things are going out of season and good fruit can be hard to find.

This morning, I went to the farmer's market to find some fruits and vegetables for the week. To my disappointment, there was NO home grown fruit, ANYWHERE. Not even apples! The only choice was to head to the store.

The grocery store proved to be just as challenging. Much of the fruit wasn't ripe, didn't look good, and worst of all was expensive. I am sure many of you are meeting the same challenges. While not ideal (and not nearly as good as fresh fruit), there are some options to avoid the high prices and poor product this time of year.

1. Buy frozen fruit. If you go to stores like Costco and Sam's Club, buy in bulk. Frozen fruit is great in smoothies!
2. Check for canned fruit sales. If you watch, you can get canned peaches and pears (NOT in the heavy syrup) for under $1 a can. Most times you can get two servings out of a can. Pineapple and mandarin oranges are other good choices.
3. Reach for raisins, which tend to have less additives than other dried fruits. Banana chips are another good option.
4. Check out which fruits are in season here.

Also, you can count one serving of fruit juice a day, but it must be 100% juice.

Fruit is an important source of many vitamins, especially vitamin C. Most fruits, like apples, bananas, and oranges, are easy to grab and take with you anywhere. Dried fruit can be kept at the office, in your car, or in your bag for a quick snack. For those of you who gave up desserts, use fruit as your post-meal or afternoon treat. The natural sugars can curb that sweet tooth!

Again, as a reminder, send me your money (or email me to make arrangements to get it to me) so that I can post standing soon! If you haven't told me your "extra" behavior yet please email me ASAP. To submit your points, you can email, Facebook, text, or call. Also, please let me know how many $$ you owe to the pot for those extra behaviors. I look forward to seeing how everyone did this week!


Becky

"What you have to do and the way you have to do it is incredibly simple. Whether you are willing to do it, that's another matter." - Peter Drucker