Key Foods for Spring Seasonal Eating
By J Gulinello, MS, CNSc, FNTP
As the seasons change, our diet should adapt to incorporate the freshest and most nutrient-dense foods available.
According to the principles of Weston A. Price, someone who was highly influential on my education, spring is the perfect time to focus on seasonal eating and incorporating foods that are rich in vitamins A and D, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Price traveled the world at a time where he could observe populations in their “untouched” state or before many were corrupted by western foods like refined sugars, flours and oils. His research highlighted the value of whole, unprocessed foods, rich in vitamins and minerals, as consumed by healthy indigenous populations.
Animal foods, a cornerstone of Price’s philosophy, shine in spring too. Eggs from pastured hens, their yolks deepened by fresh grass, brim with fat-soluble vitamins D and E—nutrients Price found critical for strong bones and immunity. Spring lamb, raised on new pastures, offers bioavailable protein and fats, including omega-3s, aligning with his emphasis on nutrient synergy. Fermented dairy, like kefir or raw milk yogurt, complements the season by supporting gut health with probiotics, a practice Price observed in thriving traditional cultures.
Preparation matters as much as selection. Price advocated for methods that maximize nutrient retention, like gentle cooking or fermenting. Lightly steaming spring greens preserves their vitality, while broths made from pastured bones—simmered with early carrots and herbs—concentrate minerals into a warming tonic. Fermented vegetables, like sauerkraut from overwintered cabbage, add enzymes and beneficial bacteria, echoing the wisdom of pre-industrial diets.
Key Foods for Spring Seasonal Eating
Fresh Grass-Fed Dairy: Enjoy the rich flavor and high nutrient content of spring milk, cheese, and butter from grass-fed cows.
Wild Greens: Forage for wild greens like dandelion, chicory, and plantain, which are rich in vitamins A and K.
Fresh Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, which are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Spring Nuts and Seeds: Enjoy the rich flavor and nutrient content of spring nuts and seeds like walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds.
Tips for Incorporating Seasonal Eating into Your Diet
Visit Your Local Farmers Market: Connect with local farmers and artisans to source the freshest and most nutrient-dense foods.
Forage for Wild Foods: Explore your local area to find wild greens, fruits, and nuts that are rich in nutrients.
Cook with Spring Ingredients: Experiment with new recipes that incorporate spring ingredients like fresh herbs, citrus, and spring vegetables.
By incorporating these seasonal foods into your diet, you’ll be supporting your overall health and well- being, while also returning to a lost way of eating with the seasons which arguably has health benefits far beyond the reach of current scientific understanding!
Be well!
-J
J Gulinello | MS, CNSc, FNTP | Founder, Perpetual Health