Did you know that gardening has health benefits beyond getting fresh vegetables and beautiful flowers for your table? It’s true! Here’s how digging in the dirt can improve your health.

It’s exercise. Gardening is considered moderate exercise. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise four to five days a week keeps your heart healthy by lowering your risk of high blood pressure, raising your HDL (good cholesterol) while lowering your LDL (bad cholesterol) and keeping your heart and lungs fit. Moderate exercise may lower your risk of stroke.

It reduces stress. Moderate exercise, including gardening, helps reduce stress. It can also alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Being physically active can improve your self-esteem.

Picky eaters might not be so picky. Kids are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables if they helped grow them. Inviting your children or grandchildren to lend a hand in the garden not only makes them more interested in eating their veggies, but also helps them to stay physically active.

If gardening is the right activity for you, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Use a stool if kneeling is hard on your knees.
• When lifting, avoid bending at the waist. Lift with your legs.
• Make sure you wear protective gear including gloves, safety glasses and hats.
• Take shade and water breaks to avoid getting overheated and dehydrated. If gardening is not your thing but you still want to enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers this summer, Stark County has a bounty of farmers’ markets.