Those wonderful foods of fall

     With the holidays right around the corner, you might be wondering what fall foods are the best for your health and well-being. The good news is there’s a plethora of traditional options that taste great and are good for your body. Let’s take a look at what foods are best to pile up on your plate, and what might be better to avoid.

Turkey: Turkey is much lower in fat than beef or chicken, and a rich protein source. As a source of high protein and low carbohydrates, turkey helps regulate your insulin levels. Avoid using too much butter in preparation of the turkey.

Sweet potatoes: A Thanksgiving staple, opt for sweet potatoes instead of candied yams. Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and packed with vitamin A.

Pumpkins: Possibly the food most associated with the fall season, pumpkins are also full of vitamin A and lutein, which are great for maintaining your eyesight. The potassium of pumpkins helps to lower the risk of hypertension, and their high zinc content can help to boost your immune system throughout the winter months.

Apple pie: If pumpkin pie isn’t your thing, consider a slice of apple pie instead. Keep it healthier by opting to use whole wheat flour, and pass on adding the ice cream.

Cranberries: Another staple of Thanksgiving, cranberries are a stellar source of antioxidants as well as vitamin C. When making sauce, try to avoid adding too much sugar.

Things to Avoid:

• Dishes heavy with cheese, which will add calories and fat to otherwise healthier options. (I know we don’t all like broccoli, but adding a ton of cheese almost defeats the point of eating veggies J ) 
• White bread, which has been stripped of nutritional content, won’t satisfy your appetite, and adds extra calories and spike blood sugar levels. 
• Gravy – especially when it’s made with the pan drippings 
• Cheesecake – go for apple or pumpkin pie instead.

By Danni Lapis