Roadside Fruit Stands Offer Energy to Go

It’s hard to maintain a healthy diet while we roll around the country.  Summer fruits offer a delicious, nutritious source of energy and vitamins.  A few bags of fruit on board are better for us than a few bags of chips or processed snacks. 

Fruit gives you energy and hydrates you between stops.  You can buy some from roadside stands along the scenic routes off the interstate highways.  There are also pick-your-own farms where you can fill a bag with the freshest fruit possible, straight from the plant.  And while you’re at it, you’ll probably see some beautiful countryside you may have missed otherwise.

Go ahead and stock up on strawberries.   Be sure to purchase sweet, aromatic berries that are dark red with no green or white spotting.  Strawberries are low in calories but high in vitamin C, sodium, iron, and potassium.  They can be munched by themselves or with granola and milk.

Bing cherries are tasty and a great finger food.  Keep them refrigerated until you eat them.  Chilled cherries last longer and are more flavorful.  They’re enzyme-dense, potassium-rich, and beta-carotene loaded.  Buy this source of vitamin C when the berries are firm, heavy, and deep red.

Peaches are a sure-sweet treat that refresh, while satisfying hunger.  These fuzzy fruits are packed with potassium and beta-carotene, as well as vitamin C.  Buy firm peaches with smooth skin.  Let them ripen on the trip.  When you can smell them, eat them.  Refrigerate peaches and they’ll last for five days after ripening. 

Blueberries and raspberries have vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber.  Both berries should be purchased when they’re firm and refrigerated until eaten.  They’re terrific by themselves or with a bowl of granola or yogurt.

Have your co-pilot cut up some watermelon as you drive.  Since they’re mostly water, they’re low in calories but filled with Vitamin C, pectin, and potassium.  When buying a melon, tap it with your knuckle.  If it sounds hollow, it’s ripe. 

Enjoy the season and the fruits of the earth.  Buy them fresh from the farmers for a more unique trip.  As with any sightseeing trip, the sights are the same until you get off the highway.  So be sure to stock up on vitamins, nutrients, and memories instead of chips, candy, and hot dogs.  You’ll be more alert while you drive and you’ll sleep better on your vacation, so you can really enjoy yourself.

Healthy Traveler