Summer is officially over and even though the days are shorter, colder and rainier, try not to fall into despair. Maybe in fall, you won’t drink so many colorful and crazy cocktails, sunbathe or swim, but that definitely doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to enjoy. Prepare kitchen pans and kettles, set the table and get ready for delicious fall dishes because when it comes to food, autumn is the best time of the year. September and the following months bring us a wide range of all kinds of delicious and healthy fruits and vegetables along with perfect fall recipes for making the best of it. One more thing that makes fall a perfect season is that afterward follows winter, and that means you don’t have to give yourself a hard time if you treat yourself with some bonus calories.
Pumpkins
This fruit (or vegetable, since pumpkin causes many discussions and divided opinions on this matter) can easily be called the symbol and synonym for fall. However, pumpkin is not just a Halloween decoration or a filling in Thanksgiving pie, but like the other members of the squash family, it has extraordinary health benefits. It’s loaded with alpha and beta-carotene – a fantastic antioxidant that our body converts into Vitamin A, great for healthy eyesight and necessary for maintaining good vision. Seeds also have fantastic health benefits. They’re a great source of omega-3 fatty acid that can help against heart diseases, high blood pressure or cholesterol.
Sweet potatoes
Similar to pumpkins, sweet potatoes are also loaded with vitamin A. Some studies have shown that only one medium-sized sweet potato contains more than 400% of required Vitamin A daily intake. Apart from vitamin A, vitamin C is also contained in significant amounts, which can boost your immune system and save you from catching a cold on chilly autumn nights. They’re also high in potassium which can have a positive effect on blood pressure.
Apples
Did you know that there are almost 8000 different types of this magnificent fruit? Throughout the history apple always had a special place. Ancient Greeks, Romans, Native Americans and many other civilizations adored apples and there’s surely a reason why they’ve been favorite fruit and snack all around the world for thousands of years. It is obvious that our ancestors knew about great health benefits and nutritive values of apples.
Pear
This autumn fruit is perfect for those who like a bit sweeter taste. Of course, there are plenty of types in the market but generally, all pears are great for your health. They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids and regular daily consumption of pears can decrease the risk of obesity, diabetes, blood problems, and it can improve your general health.
Cranberries
Cranberries are another typical fall fruit that can be found in markets all year long, but they definitively taste most delicious in October and November. We tend to mix them into everything from fruit juices and cakes to pork and lamb. They’re just perfect! And one more thing is perfect about cranberries – their health benefit. Many doctors and researchers have discovered that cranberries prevent many forms of cancer and slow the tumor growth. They’re also incredibly good for our cardiovascular system as well as for our teeth and gums.
Nessie L.B.