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Find fresh produce and friends at area farmers markets

August 8, 2022

Growing up in the Peach State of Georgia, Bayhealth family medicine physician resident H. Kendall Barton, MD, has always enjoyed the summer season, and all the fresh fruits and vegetables that come along with it. As a fan of cooking, Barton said the healthiest ingredients can be found right in your neighborhood – at a local farmers market.

“Fruits and vegetables are key components to healthy eating,” said Barton. “Studies show that people who eat more fruits and vegetables lower their risk for chronic illness such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.” And shoppers won’t find fresher produce than at a farmers market.

Not all fruits and vegetables are equal. Some stores use methods like gassing to ripen produce that was picked too soon. For example, strawberries that are bright red on the outside but white on the inside were likely gassed. Look for bins that sell local produce.

Barton has come to know and love Delaware since starting his residency in family medicine. He said taking a stroll through local farmers markets offers fresh air, a time to connect with neighbors, a way to support local families, and the chance to find the freshest produce and other items.

The Riverwalk Farmers Market in Milford is one of Barton’s favorites, offering fruits and veggies along with farm-fresh meats, eggs and honey. There are also seafood, baked goods, sauces and spices all fresh and ready to be used in your favorite healthy meal. But that’s not all – there are also fresh flowers, goat milk soaps and lotions, crafts and even treats for your pets.

“Farmers markets are not just good for your nutritional health; they are also good for your mental wellness,” said Barton. “They are outdoors, which in itself can boost your health. They also give you an opportunity to socialize. Farmers love to share tips and insight on their products and will likely introduce you to a variety of produce that you may not even find at the grocery store.”

Other local farmers markets can be found in Rehoboth Beach, Historic Lewes and Milton.

Dr. H. Kendall Barton is a family medicine physician at Bayhealth Family Medicine, Dover. He is accepting new patients and sees all members of the family from newborns through all ages. Visit Bayhealth.org/Family-Medicine or call 302-725-3200 to schedule an appointment.

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