As the colder months approach, the prices for vegetables that require warm weather climates to thrive will go up. This is a natural process that results from importing veggies from greater distances, but that doesn’t mean you have to overspend on your budget. There are plenty of vegetables that grow in colder climates that also provide the nourishment your family needs.
Brussels Sprouts
This cruciferous vegetable can be recognized by its appearance, which resembles baby heads of cabbage. They grow well in cool climates and can survive temperatures that would freeze and kill other crops. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamin K, an essential nutrient that promotes bone density and growth. It also helps boost the functioning of the heart and brain.
Carrots
Even though carrot crops are harvested all year round, they are better tasting when harvested in the fall or winter. This is because the starch in carrots is transformed into sugar to protect cell moisture against freezing temperatures. A single large carrot contains enough vitamin A to provide you with two and a half times the daily recommended allowance. In addition to protecting vision and aiding in growth, vitamin A also helps keep the immune system strong.
Red Cabbage
Green cabbage provides a good supply of vitamins, but red cabbage offers a much broader range of nutrients. Additionally, red cabbage grows well and thrives in colder temperatures. When eaten raw, red cabbage provides large quantities of vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains a great amount of manganese and potassium. In addition to these nutrients, red cabbage delivers Anthocyanins into the blood, which are beneficial antioxidants. They promote good heart health.
Radishes
While not a popular vegetable, radishes are sturdy vegetables that thrive in freezing temperatures. They provide large quantities of potassium, vitamin B, and vitamin C, while also containing a sulfur-based compound called isothiocyanate. This compound may be the reason eating radishes supports immune and helps protect many organs from age-related concerns.
These are just a few of the hardy, cold-temperature vegetables that can fit your grocery shopping budget throughout the winter. By switching to these veggies through the colder season, you’ll be giving your body a broader range of nutrients to promote better health and immunity. In this way, you’ll be helping your family stay healthier as you shop wisely to save money.