There are a few reasons why people gain more weight during the fall and winter seasons than in spring and summertime. For one thing, we're able to layer our clothing. That makes it easier to hide those extra pounds that come with eating candy at Halloween and carbs at Thanksgiving. Another reason is when there's frost on the cars due to cold weather, that makes us want to eat more comfort food. Unfortunately, some of it is fattening.
This year, try something different! Still enjoy all of the wonderfulness that the fall season has to offer. Only try some foods that traditionally "fall in" with the season, but are actually good for you. You'll be able to embrace autumn and still keep your figure right where you want it to be.
Pomegranate smoothies
Pomegranates are really big during the fall season, and with good reason! Although they are not the most popular kind of fruit, they come with all sorts of health benefits. Pomegranates help to relieve chronic inflammation, they reduce joint pain, fight heart disease, along with bacterial and fungal infections. Another interesting thing to know about the fruit is it can help to increase blood circulation, that's helpful if the man in your life has erectile dysfunction issues. Plus, pomegranates are high in fiber, protein, potassium, folate and Vitamins A and C. Click here for some delicious pomegranate smoothie recipes[1].
Pumpkin seeds
Fall is when you see pumpkins everywhere! It's a good reminder to pick up some pumpkin seeds to snack on. They contain magnesium that's good for your heart, zinc to give your immune system a boost, omega-3 fats to protect your joints and keep your skin clear, and natural phytoestrogens that can reduce the symptoms of post-menopause. Pumpkin seeds also have tryptophan in them; that will help to give you a good night's rest.
Vegan Mexican dishes
As far as kinds of dishes that are trending this year, Mexican is on the list. Although it sometimes gets the reputation for not being the healthiest, it's all in the preparation. Beans have lots of protein, corn tortillas have fiber and so many of the herbs and spices[2] are good for you. This fall, try and enjoy Mexican food without any meat. If you've never done that before, click here[3]for some wonderful recipes.
Filipino cuisine
Another type of cuisine that's trending this season is Filipino food. If you're concerned about some of the sodium it typically has, there are ways to make it healthier for you and your family. Use non-stick pans so that you won't have to rely so much on oil. Make your stir-fry with broth. Grill, steam or bake to reduce the fat and fry as little as possible. Never made Filipino food before? Click here[4] for some inspiration.
Squash soup
Squash is another food that's in season during autumn. It has really high amounts of Vitamins A, B6 and C, along with fiber, copper, manganese and potassium. Squash contains antioxidants to fight off free radicals, is considered to be an anti-inflammatory food, regulates blood sugar and helps to protect you from heart disease. Butternut squash soup is a tasty way to come in from the cold. Click here[5] for a recipe.
Pear preserves
If constipation is something that you struggle with, pears are the solution. It's one of the sweetest ways to get your fiber intake. Pears have lots of Vitamins C and K in them. Studies show that eating pears on a daily basis can reduce your risk of a stroke by as much as 50 percent. Pears strengthen your immune system, increase your energy levels and provide pregnant moms with a high amount of folic acid. Pears can also help to reduce a fever, prevent arthritis and soothe a sore throat. Why not make some pear preserves this fall? Click here[6] to learn how.
Homemade apple cider
Apples are available all year. But they are at their peak of perfection during the fall. Apple cider is such a warm and soothing drink. If you researched it, you'd probably see that the health benefits coincide with apple cider vinegar. That's because the cider is taken from the pulp of pureed apples and the vinegar is a fermented form of the cider. From controlling your blood sugar and whitening your teeth to promoting weight loss and keeping your hair healthy (and so many other things in between), you are doing your body good on so many levels by making yourself some homemade apple cider. Click here[7] for a great "welcome to autumn" recipe, and enjoy all that this season brings you!
