Avera Medical Minute: Benefits of utilizing a garden [Video]

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – If you can get involved with a community garden or start one on your own, there are an abundance of benefits you can reap.

Avera Endocrinologist Dr. Richard Crawford assists with the St. Isidore Garden sponsored by Avera McKennan and knows the kind of natural produce that will improve your life.

“A lot of the produce that we grow are rich in minerals and vitamins,” Dr. Crawford said. “They’re high in fiber, tend to be low in carbohydrates, and compared to processed foods, if you have kale, you’re getting calcium and vitamin K. If you’re having peppers, you’re getting vitamin C,” he added.

As an endocrinologist, Dr. Crawford’s patients often have trouble managing their starches and carbohydrates.

When vegetables are introduced, there are fewer carbs, sugars and calories.

You also protect yourself from cardiovascular disease, inflammation and cancer because of the antioxidants.