Have a Healthy Fall

Keeping up with good hygiene including hand washing practices and getting vaccinated (if you can) are some of the best ways to keep illnesses at bay. No one wants to spend time cooped up and feeling miserable, so taking the necessary precautions can help prevent you from coming down with a cold or the flu. Even in colder weather staying hydrated is key to keeping your body and immune system functioning properly.

If you like pumpkin, indulge in this seasonal squash. While a pumpkin spiced latte might be a treat, it usually doesn’t contain any actual pumpkin. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins A, C, and E and is a wonderful source of fiber and potassium. Pumpkin isn’t just for sweet cakes or breads either. Consider making pumpkin soup, pasta sauce, pairing pumpkin and black beans for a quesadilla, or gnocchi. If you’ve got pumpkin seeds, don’t toss them, roast them for a healthy snack.

Unplug from your social media and head outside for some fresh air and to get moving. While it may be tempting to sit inside on cooler days and get lost scrolling on your phone, autumn is a great time to be outdoors and be active before the cold of winter’s chill settles in. There’s not anything quite as satisfying as the crunch of leaves under your feet as you walk.

Keep your cravings at bay when it comes to overindulging in those sweets and candy that start showing up in the fall. It’s not a bad thing to treat yourself just keep it in moderation to avoid over doing it. Keep your daily meals healthy and then have a treat to balance your day. If you tend to buy bags and bags of candy or other seasonal goodies that you can’t stay out of, try only bringing home a small amount. If you have parties or events that you know will have high calorie options, think about bringing raw veggies or fresh fruit.

Enjoy all the in-season produce this time of year offers. The autumn is a great time to enjoy things such as beets, eggplant, squash, cabbage, and cauliflower. Apples and pears are fall staples, but don’t forget about cranberries and persimmons too.