Summer Safety Tips: Enjoying the Season Safely and Healthy

As we dive into the summer season, it’s important to stay safe while enjoying the warm weather and outdoor activities. Check out our essential summer safety tips to help you have a fun and healthy season.

1. Stay Hydrated:

With the temperatures rising, it’s crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, so be sure to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go.

2. Protect Your Skin:

The sun’s UV rays can cause damage to your skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. To effectively protect your skin, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin at least 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget commonly missed areas like your ears, neck, hands, and feet. Remember, sun protection is not just for a day at the beach – make it a daily habit to keep your skin healthy all summer long.

3. Practice Water Safety:

Whether you’re heading to the pool, beach, or lake, always prioritize water safety. Supervise children closely around water, wear appropriate flotation devices if needed, and swim in designated areas with lifeguards present.

4. Be Aware of Bug Bites:

In rural areas, insect bites are common during the summer months. Protect yourself by wearing insect repellent, long sleeves, and pants when spending time outdoors. Check for ticks after being outside and remove them promptly to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases.

5. Stay Active Safely:

Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or gardening is a great way to stay active during the summer. To prevent injuries, warm up before exercising, wear appropriate footwear, and pace yourself to avoid overexertion in the heat.

By following these summer safety tips, you can enjoy a season filled with fun, outdoor adventures, and good health. Stay safe and take care of yourself this summer!

General NewsPhysical Health

Common Men’s Health Issues and How to Address Them

Men often prioritize their responsibilities at work and home over their health. However, neglecting health can lead to serious consequences in the long run. From heart disease to mental health challenges, men face various health issues that require attention and proactive management. In this blog, we’ll shed light on some common men’s health issues and offer practical tips on how to address them.

Cardiovascular Health

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among men worldwide. Factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking significantly increase the risk. To address this:

  • Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
  • Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly and consult a healthcare provider if they’re elevated.

Prostate Health

Prostate issues, including enlargement and cancer, are common among aging men. While some risk factors like age and family history are beyond your control, men can take proactive steps such as:

  • Regular screenings, including a digital rectal exam (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, especially after age 50.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active.
  • Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids into the diet.
  • Discussing any urinary symptoms or concerns with a healthcare provider promptly.

Mental Health

Mental health remains a significant concern for men, although it often goes unnoticed or untreated due to societal stigmas. Depression, anxiety, and suicide rates are notably higher among men. To address this:

  • Prioritize mental well-being by practicing stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Build a support network of friends, family, or a therapist to talk openly about feelings and concerns.
  • Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, whether it’s hobbies, sports, or spending time outdoors.
  • Seek professional help if experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness.

Prioritizing men’s health is crucial for overall well-being and longevity. By understanding common health issues and taking proactive measures to address them, men can lead healthier and happier lives. Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes for better health!

AwarenessEmotional HealthMental HealthPhysical Health

Digital Detox: Managing Screen Time for Better Mental Health

In today’s digital age, it’s no secret that our lives are increasingly filled with screens. From smartphones to laptops to tablets, we’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, social media updates, and endless streams of content. While technology has undoubtedly made our lives more convenient, it’s also important to recognize the potential negative impacts excessive screen time can have on our mental health.

Enter the concept of a “digital detox.” Just like a physical detox can help rid the body of toxins, a digital detox is a conscious effort to reduce or eliminate the time spent on screens to promote positive mental well-being. Below we’ll dive into the importance of managing screen time for better mental health and provide practical tips for implementing a successful digital detox.

Why Digital Detox Matters

The constant flood of information and stimuli from screens can take a toll on our mental health in several ways:

  • Increased Stress and Anxiety:
    The pressure to constantly stay connected and keep up with notifications can lead to heightened levels of stress and anxiety.
  • Disrupted Sleep Patterns:
    Exposure to the blue light emitted by screens, particularly before bedtime, can disrupt our circadian rhythms and interfere with sleep quality.
  • Social Comparison and FOMO:
    Social media platforms often exacerbate feelings of inadequacy as we compare our lives to the carefully curated highlight reels of others, leading to increased feelings of loneliness and FOMO (fear of missing out).
  • Decreased Productivity:
    Constant distractions from digital devices can impede our ability to focus and complete tasks efficiently, leading to decreased productivity and feelings of frustration.

Tips for a Successful Digital Detox

Implementing a digital detox doesn’t mean completely cutting off technology cold turkey. Instead, it’s about finding a healthy balance and setting boundaries that work for you. Here are some practical tips to help you get started:

  • Set Boundaries:
    Establish specific times during the day when you will refrain from using digital devices, such as during meals, before bedtime, or on weekends.
  • Use Technology Wisely:
    Leverage technology to your advantage by using apps or settings that help you track and limit your screen time, such as screen time monitoring features built into many smartphones.
  • Prioritize Real-Life Connections:
    Make an effort to engage in face-to-face interactions with friends and family members rather than relying solely on digital communication.
  • Engage in Offline Activities:
    Rediscover hobbies and activities that don’t involve screens, such as reading, exercising, gardening, or baking.
  • Create Tech-Free Zones:
    Designate certain areas of your home, such as the bedroom or dining room, as tech-free zones to promote relaxation and quality time with loved ones.
  • Practice Mindfulness:
    Take regular breaks throughout the day to check in with yourself and assess how you’re feeling. Use this time to practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to help alleviate stress and promote mental clarity.

In a world where digital devices are everywhere, it’s more important than ever to prioritize our mental well-being by managing our screen time effectively. By implementing a digital detox and setting boundaries around our use of technology, we can reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and cultivate healthier relationships. Remember, it’s not about completely eliminating technology from our lives, but rather finding a balance that allows us to harness its benefits while safeguarding our mental health. So, are you ready to embark on your digital detox journey?

Emotional HealthMental HealthPhysical Health

Embracing Sobriety: 6 Alternatives to Alcohol for a Fulfilling Lifestyle

In a world where alcohol often takes center stage in social settings, it’s important to recognize that there are countless alternatives available for those who choose to abstain from drinking. Whether you’re pursuing sobriety, prioritizing your health, or simply looking for new ways to socialize and unwind, embracing alternatives to alcohol can lead to a more fulfilling and vibrant lifestyle. Let’s explore some of these alternatives and how they can enrich your life.

1. Flavorful Mocktails:

Who says you need alcohol to enjoy a delicious and refreshing beverage? Mocktails offer a wide range of flavors and combinations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From fruity spritzers to creamy smoothies, there’s a mocktail for every occasion. Experiment with fresh ingredients like herbs, fruits, and sparkling water to create your own signature mocktail recipes that are both flavorful and alcohol-free.

2. Mindful Activities:

Instead of relying on alcohol to unwind after a long day, consider engaging in mindful activities that promote relaxation and stress relief. Whether it’s practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques can help you reconnect with yourself and find inner peace without the need for alcohol. Other calming activities such as journaling, taking nature walks, or listening to soothing music can also provide a sense of serenity and well-being.

3. Creative Pursuits:

Channel your energy and creativity into artistic endeavors that ignite your passion and spark joy. Whether you enjoy painting, writing, crafting, or playing music, creative pursuits offer a fulfilling outlet for self-expression and self-discovery. Joining a local art class or creative workshop can also provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests and enthusiasm for the arts.

4. Fitness and Movement:

Stay active and energized by incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine. Whether you prefer going for a run, hitting the gym, or practicing a dance routine, physical activity releases endorphins that boost your mood and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. Joining a sports team or fitness group can also provide a sense of camaraderie and support as you work towards your fitness goals.

5. Meaningful Connections:

Focus on building meaningful connections with friends and loved ones through quality time spent together. Instead of meeting up at bars or clubs, suggest alternative social activities such as picnics in the park, game nights, or volunteering for a cause you care about. Engaging in meaningful conversations and shared experiences can deepen your relationships and create lasting memories without the presence of alcohol.

6. Learning and Growth:

Feed your curiosity by pursuing new interests and learning opportunities. Whether it’s taking a cooking class, learning a new language, or attending a lecture or workshop, lifelong learning enriches your mind and enhances your sense of fulfillment. Engaging in intellectual pursuits can also provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment that alcohol simply cannot match.

 

There are countless alternatives to alcohol that can enrich your life and promote a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. By exploring flavorful mocktails, engaging in mindful activities, pursuing creative passions, staying active through fitness and movement, nurturing meaningful connections, and embracing opportunities for learning and growth, you can enjoy rewarding experiences without relying on alcohol. Challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone and discover the joy of alcohol-free living.

Awareness

How Oral Health Impacts Overall Wellness

Maintaining good oral health is more than a bright white smile and fresh breath; it’s essential for keeping your entire body well. Studies have consistently shown that when we take care of our teeth and gums, it helps our overall health. Adversely, poor oral health has been linked to a variety of long-term health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and even breathing issues. Recognizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being is important for taking a proactive approach to your own health care.

Gum Disease and Cardiovascular Health

One of the most well-established connections is between gum disease (periodontitis) and cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that the inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to the development of heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in other parts of the body that can affect the heart and blood vessels.

Diabetes and Oral Health

The connection between diabetes and oral health goes both ways. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, and gum disease can make it challenging to control blood sugar levels. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications.

Respiratory Health

Oral health can also impact respiratory health. Bacteria in the mouth can be aspirated into the lungs, contributing to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. This is particularly relevant for individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying respiratory conditions.

Practical Tips for Optimal Oral Health:

  • Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to detect and address issues early.
  • Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene.
  • Balanced Diet: A nutritious diet contributes to both oral and overall health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancers.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps maintain a healthy balance of saliva, which is crucial for oral health.

The link between oral health and overall wellness is undeniable, which is why prioritizing dental care is an integral part of maintaining your overall health. By recognizing and addressing oral health issues, we not only safeguard our smiles but our bodies as well. 

Physical Health

Heart-Healthy Goals: Small Changes for Big Impact

DFD Heart-Healthy GoalsFebruary is American Heart Month – a month to focus on cardiovascular health as an important part of your daily self-care routine. Embracing heart-healthy goals not only contributes to our overall well-being but sets the stage for a vibrant and fulfilling life. Instead of overwhelming ourselves with drastic changes, let’s explore the power of small adjustments that can lead to a big impact on our heart health.

1. Mindful Eating:
Small Change: Incorporate more colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals.

Instead of drastic diets, focus on adding vibrant, heart-healthy foods to your plate. The natural antioxidants and nutrients in fruits and vegetables contribute to cardiovascular health. Try adding a new fruit or vegetable to your grocery list each week and savor the rainbow of flavors.

2. Move More, Sit Less:
Small Change: Take short breaks to stretch or walk during your workday.

Physical activity doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym. Simple movements throughout the day can make a significant difference. Set a timer to remind yourself to stand up, stretch, or take a short stroll. These breaks not only benefit your heart but also boost energy and focus.

3. Hydration Habits:
Small Change: Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal teas.

Staying hydrated is vital for heart health. Make a small but impactful change by swapping sugary sodas or energy drinks for water or herbal teas. Not only does this contribute to better cardiovascular health, but it also supports overall hydration and helps control calorie intake.

4. Stress Management:
Small Change: Incorporate deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine.

Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Combat stress by integrating simple deep-breathing exercises into your routine. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or even a short breathing exercise before bedtime to promote relaxation and support heart health.

5. Prioritize Sleep:
Small Change: Establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Quality sleep is a cornerstone of heart health. Create a calming bedtime ritual, limit screen time before sleep, and aim for the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

6. Connect with Others:
Small Change: Schedule regular social activities.

Cultivating meaningful connections is beneficial for heart health. Whether it’s a virtual coffee chat, a walk with a friend, or a family game night, prioritize social interactions. These moments contribute not only to emotional well-being but also to a healthier heart.

In the journey to a heart-healthy lifestyle, small changes can lead to significant and lasting results. By incorporating these manageable adjustments into your daily routine, you set the foundation for a heart-healthy year ahead. Remember, it’s the consistency of these small changes that makes them powerful. Embrace the journey, celebrate progress, and your heart-healthy goals will have a lasting impact.

AwarenessMental HealthPhysical Health

What to Expect at Your Annual Wellness Visit (And Why You Should Do It) – New Year, New Visit

As the new year begins, many of us set goals to improve our health. However, one crucial step in this journey is often overlooked—your annual wellness visit. This comprehensive check-up is more than a routine doctor’s appointment; it’s a proactive approach to managing your health. Learn what you can expect during your annual wellness visit and why making it a priority can pave the way for a healthier, happier you in the coming year.

What to Expect at Your Annual Wellness Visit

Your annual wellness visit is more than just a quick check of your vital signs. It’s an in-depth conversation with your healthcare provider assessing your overall health and addressing potential risks and concerns. Here’s what you can typically expect during your annual check-up:

1. Health Review and Medical History:

Your healthcare provider will review and discuss your medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, and past surgeries. This information helps them understand your overall health and identify any trends or changes.

2. Vital Signs and Measurements:

Standard measurements like weight, blood pressure, heart rate will be taken. These metrics provide a snapshot of your current health and can indicate potential issues that need further investigation or provide a baseline for future visits.

3. Health Risk Assessment:

You may be asked about lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption. This information helps assess your risk for various health conditions and provides recommendations for lifestyle changes and preventive measures.

4. Preventative Screenings and Immunizations:

Depending on your age, sex, and medical history, your healthcare provider may recommend various screenings such as cholesterol checks, cancer screenings, or vaccinations. These preventative screenings can detect potential health issues early when they are more manageable.

5. Discussion and Goal Setting:

One of the key components of the annual wellness visit is the discussion about your health goals. Your healthcare provider can offer professional guidance on lifestyle changes, nutrition and exercise, helping you set achievable goals for the upcoming year.

Why You Should Prioritize Your Annual Wellness Visit

1. Early Detection of Health Issues:

Annual wellness visits provide an opportunity for early detection of potential health problems. Regular screenings and assessments can identify conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, and certain cancers in their early stages when they are more treatable.

2. Preventive Care and Immunizations:

Wellness exams often include preventive measures such as vaccinations and screenings. Staying current with these preventive screenings can significantly reduce the risk of developing serious illnesses and contribute to a healthier, disease-resistant lifestyle.

3. Personalized Health Guidance:

These exams involve one-on-one discussions with your healthcare provider about your lifestyle, habits, and family medical history. This personalized interaction allows for tailored health advice, enabling you to make informed decisions about your well-being.

4. Chronic Disease Management:

If you have existing chronic conditions, annual wellness exams play a crucial role in monitoring and managing these conditions effectively. Adjustments to treatment plans can be made, ensuring that your health is optimally controlled.

5. Building a Relationship with Your Healthcare Provider:

Regular wellness exams foster a strong and continuous relationship with your healthcare provider. This connection facilitates open communication, making it easier to discuss any health concerns, track progress, and receive ongoing support for your health goals.

As you begin a new year full of possibilities, make your health a top priority by scheduling and attending your annual wellness visit. Remember, prevention is key, and your annual wellness visit is a powerful tool in safeguarding your well-being for years to come. So, here’s to a new year, a new visit, and a new commitment to your health!

Mental HealthPhysical Health

Giving Is Good for Your Health

The holiday season is full of opportunities to spread joy and do good in the world. Did you know that giving—whether helping someone, volunteering, making a charitable contribution, or giving a gift—is good for your mental and physical well-being? Let’s look at the science behind generosity and why giving is good for your health.

Many Reasons to Give Generously

From the times you’ve helped a friend or neighbor, you likely know that giving feels good. Interestingly, research suggests that giving results in more than just a good feeling. It positively impacts our health. In fact, caring for others helps your health so much it made our list of the five lifestyle choices you can make to prevent diseases and be well.

When you do kind things for others, your brain secretes “feel-good” neurotransmitters, including serotonin (which helps with your mood), dopamine (which we experience as pleasure), and oxytocin (which promotes inner peace). We then experience numerous mental and physical benefits as a result. 

How Is Giving Good for My Health?

Helping someone else also helps you! Being generous has been found to: 

  • Lower your blood pressure—to a similar extent as eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise!
  • Live longer. People who volunteer are more likely to live long and happy lives. 
  • Reduce stress. In addition to increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, giving gifts or helping others can reduce your cortisol level, making you feel more calm and less stressed. 
  • Cause a “helper’s high,” as a result of the endorphins being released. This improves your self-esteem, increases happiness, and decreases depressed feelings. 
  • Promote social connection and community. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science demonstrated that when we give to others, they are more likely to give to someone else in return. This contagious spirit helps create communities who care for each other, which is central to good mental and physical health. 

How to Give Back When You’re on a Budget

Serving others does not have to cost much—or any—money. You still receive the same health benefits from acts of care when you don’t spend any money. Consider engaging in acts of kindness, such as walking a neighbor’s dog, doing someone’s chores, or smiling at everyone on the street. 

Create a Giving Tradition

A study in 2018 by Fidelity Charitable found that children who are raised in families with strong giving traditions and who are communicative about the value of giving back are more likely to give charitably as adults, be happy, and have closer relationships with their immediate and extended families. 

If you don’t have a giving tradition in your family yet, this might be the year to start! Involve everyone by volunteering as a family on a service project or for a particular shared interest, such as walking dogs at your local animal shelter or making a care package for community members who have less than they need. Also be sure to talk about the importance of generosity, empathy, and respect for others with your children. This legacy of giving you’re creating will benefit your own family and your whole community for years to come.

Emotional HealthMental HealthPhysical Health

What’s in Season in Maine?

Fresh fruits and veggies are nutrient-dense foods that are vital to your health. Eating local, in-season produce is the best bet for your money, because you’ll get the highest quality vitamins and minerals—plus in-season fruits and vegetables tend to be more affordable. Not only that, but by buying local you will be supporting Maine farmers. It’s a win-win-win decision for your health, your budget, and your community! 

A Month-by-Month Guide to Fresh Food in Maine

Once you’ve made the healthy decision to add more local, seasonal fruits and vegetables to your diet, knowing what’s available can help you prepare and plan your meals. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what you’re likely to find in season from local farms, thanks to the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets, along with a favorite recipe for each month’s seasonal produce.

January
Apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, celeriac, garlic, leeks, microgreens, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkins, swedes, shallots, sweet potatoes, turnips, winter squash

Roast that winter squash into a dinner of Stuffed Acorn Squash.  

February

Apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, celeriac, garlic, leeks, microgreens, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkins, rutabagas, shallots, sweet potatoes, turnips, winter squash

Winter calls for hearty, healthy Cabbage Roll Soup. 

March

Apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, celeriac, garlic, leeks, microgreens, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkins, rutabagas, shallots, sweet potatoes, turnips, winter squash

Warm, comforting, vibrantly colored, and packed with vitamins, Carrot Ginger Soup seems made for March in Maine.

April

Apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, celeriac, garlic, leeks, microgreens, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkins, rutabagas, shallots, sweet potatoes, turnips, winter squash

Healthy Pumpkin Muffins are easy to make, easy to eat, and great for your heart.

May
Parsnips, radishes, salad greens, scallions, spinach

Featuring May vegetable superstars radishes, scallions, and salad greens, our Spring in Maine Salad is simple and bright.

June
Asparagus, beet greens, bok choy, chives, dandelion greens, kale, lettuce, parsley, peas, radishes, rhubarb, scallions, spinach, Swiss chard, turnip greens, turnips 

Part comfort food, part spring zing, our recipe for Springtime Herb Pasta with Asparagus is fresh with flavor.

July

Beets, blueberries, braising greens, broccoli, carrots, corn, cucumbers, fennel, garlic, garlic scapes, herbs, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, microgreens onions, mixed salad greens, radishes, raspberries, scallions, snow peas, strawberries, sugar snap peas, summer squash, Swiss chard, turnips

Zucchini season has begun! Zucchini is our #5 pick for the cheapest and healthiest green veggies.  Try making Zoodles. 

August

Apples, artichokes, beans, beets, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cherries, cherry tomatoes, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, fennel, garlic, herbs, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, melons, microgreens, mixed salad greens, onions, peaches, plums, potatoes, pumpkins, radishes, raspberries, scallions, summer squash, Swiss chard, tomatoes, turnips, watermelon, zucchini 

Baba Ganoush makes a party dip out of eggplants, which is perfect for dipping all of August’s raw veggies in. 

September
Apples, beans, beets, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, corn, cucumbers, delicata squash, eggplant, fennel, garlic, greens, herbs, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, melons, onions, potatoes, pumpkins, raspberries, scallions, spinach, squash, Swiss chard, tomatoes, turnips, watermelon, zucchini 

There are so many fruits and veggies available in September in Maine. Try this versatile Vegetable Frittata and mix up what you dish out. 

October
Apples, beans, beets, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, corn, cucumbers, delicata squash, eggplant, fennel, garlic, ginger, grapes, greens, herbs, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, melons, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, pears, potatoes, pumpkins, radishes, raspberries, scallions, spinach, squash, sweet potatoes, Swiss chard, tomatoes, tomatillos, turnips, zucchini 

Delight in apple season with these Apple Fritters on your breakfast plate.

November
Apples, beans, beets, bok choy, broccoli rabe, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celeriac, chard, collards, daikon, garlic, herbs, Jerusalem artichokes, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkin, radicchio, radish, rutabaga, spinach, squash, turnip

Transform potassium-rich parsnips into Gingery Parsnip Fries.

December
Apples, cranberries, beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, celeriac, garlic, kohlrabi, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes 

Combine chicken with December seasonal produce in Maine and you get Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potato and Apple.

Where to Find Local Food and How to Afford It

Now that you know what’s in season each month in Maine, find a community-supported agriculture (CSA) farm or farmers market near you. 

Fresh food can be more affordable than other options, and Maine has special programs to encourage everyone to eat locally. Most farmers markets and many CSA shares accept SNAP/EBT funds, and often offer special bonuses, like Maine Harvest Bucks, that can stretch SNAP dollars further. In addition, low-income older adults may be eligible to participate in the Maine Senior FarmShare Program.

Nutrition

Where to Enjoy Fall Foliage in Central and Western Maine

Nature + Exercise = Health

Spending time in nature is excellent for your health, and so is exercise. When you combine these two activities and exercise outdoors, you enjoy many health benefits, including lower stress and anxiety levels, a better mood, and lower blood pressure. This fall, we share our favorite spots in our central and western Maine community to hike and enjoy the breathtaking views on display during peak fall foliage season. 

 

When Is Peak Fall Foliage Season in Central and Western Maine?

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails this month to enjoy peak foliage in our area. In general, the trees display their most brilliant fall colors during the second and third weeks of October in central and western Maine. If you want to be more precise or travel to other parts of the state, you can find the best dates for peak foliage in the Maine Forest Service’s annual foliage reports.

Where To See the Best Fall Colors, By Region

Best Fall Leaf-Peeping Hikes Near Turner and Leeds

Androscoggin Riverlands State Park in Turner, Maine, offers 2,675 acres with 12 miles of river frontage, making it the fifth-largest park in the state. There are extensive trails available for all ability levels. Please note that hunting is a popular activity in this area, so be sure to wear blaze orange in the fall.

If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge and awe-inspiring views, you might like Bear Mountain Trail in North Turner. At 3.9 miles with some elevation, this moderately difficult out-and-back hike is well worth the views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range in the White Mountains. 

If history is more of what you’re after, try Monument Hill in Leeds, Maine. The 1-mile loop is moderately difficult, rewarding you with healthy exercise as you climb up. When you look west, you’ll see a Civil War monument from the late 1800s erected by Major General Oliver Otis Howard. 

Torsey Pond Nature Preserve in Readfield, Maine, is mostly wooded, which makes for a beautiful autumn display of foliage. The easy paths include two lookout points over Torsey Pond, where you can see wading birds and other waterfowl.

Favorite Hikes Near Turner and Bridgton in Autumn

Hike Hawk Mountain in Waterford, Maine, is a family-friendly 1.4-mile trail with spectacular views. Try going in the late afternoon so you can see the sunset across the fall foliage. 

The Witt’s End Trail is a 4.5-mile year-round, out-and-back hiking trail near Norway in Maine’s Oxford Hills area. The easy walk is family-friendly, including those with strollers. People of all ages enjoy its stone walls and woodlands, which produce a stunning array of colors during leaf-peeping season. 

Also near Norway is the Roberts Farm Preserve. This 212-acre former farm has more than 12 miles of trails managed by the Western Foothills Land Trust. Centered around Lake Pennesseewassee, the autumn colors are especially beautiful because they are reflected in the water. You can also enjoy two large sculptures by Maine artist Bernard Langlais at this location.

For our Bridgton-area community, the Burnt Meadow Mountain Trail, a 3.6-mile loop in Brownfield, and the Jockey Cap Trail in Fryeburg, a half-mile hike, both offer panoramas of the White Mountains. 

Top Spots Near Monmouth for Fall Colors

Considered a great place for a walk, run, or bike ride right by Lake Auburn, the Whitman Spring Road trail in Auburn, Maine, offers an easy 2.1-mile trail on gravel and crushed stone. See loons on the lake and enjoy the peaceful woods.

Kennebec County trails include nearly five miles of paths within the Woodbury Nature Sanctuary in Monmouth and Litchfield, Maine. The Blue Trail offers three lookout points, including beautiful views of Woodbury Pond and Mud Pond. Please note that dogs are not allowed in this sanctuary.  

LocalMental HealthPhysical Health