Newsletter 2-13-13

Heart Healthy Foods & Upcoming Farmers' Market Events

Spread the Love of Health with Heart Healthy Fresh Foods

Valentine's Day is tomorrow, but why not skip the candy and chocolates in favor of a few farm fresh foods your heart will healthfully pitter patter for. Check out what we've got: 

Avocados

Avocados are in season and it's high time we take them off the "too fat, no thanks" list. Yes, avos are high in fat, but the type of fat really matters. Avos are rich in healthy fats, otherwise known as monounsaturated fats, that promote good cardiovascular health. They can help lower bad cholesterol and give you a boost of good cholesterol. Research has also pointed to their anti-inflammatory benefits which help when the body is sick. Avos are also an excellent fruit rich in fiber to keep your digestive system healthy. Fuertes are in season now! Come give them a try. Fresh avocados from Atkins Nursery this Friday. 

Almonds and Walnuts

Almonds and walnuts are known to be the healthy nuts on the block. They are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which promote heart health. Almonds in particular are a good source of Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant known to keep your immune system, hair, and skin healthy too. And remember, walnuts and almonds are packed with healthy fats to keep you feeling full longer. Visit Alex's Fruit & Nuts to pick up your heart healthy snacks. 

Berries

Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries--not only are they sweet and fresh, but rich in heart healthy antioxidants. The antioxidants found in berries can help prevent or reduce inflammation in the body, which helps reduce your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Research has shown blueberries in particular can offer added protection to your heart by helping maintain healthy blood pressure. Visit New Era Farms on Friday for a wide variety of berries to please the heart. 

Starting a Home-Based Food Business

Cottage Food Law Workshop 3/8 @ 5:30pm

California's new Cottage Food Law went into effect this January and we want to help you get started! Join us at the farmers' market on 3/8 for a community workshop led by Mark Anderson, executive director of our farmers' market operating non-profit, Sprouts of Promise Foundation, to learn the steps needed to turn your food venture idea into a tangible business. Please RSVP to montereyparkfm@gmail.com, as space is limited. 

More Upcoming Events at the Farmers' Market 

3/1 5:30pm Cooking Demonstation

3/8 5:30pm Cottage Food Workshop (see above)

3/8 6:30pm Free Zumba Class!

3/15  4-8pm Ask-a-Dietician: Free nutrition advice and healthy recipe samples

3/22 6pm Easter Egg Dyeing with Natural Products. Come also to learn and support our local non-profits (all night)

We're in for a sunny and warm Friday...we'll see you at the market 4-8pm. 

-MPCFM