With fall comes new, colorful superfood options on our grocery store shelves, at the farmer’s market and in the pumpkin patches.
It’s a great time to revamp your commitment to healthy, wholesome foods. There are probably as many fall superfoods as you can imagine, but here are five that top our list of those to look out for and incorporate into your diet.
Fall superfood #1: Cinnamon
The smell of sweet cinnamon whispers “fall,” which is almost a good enough reason to include it on our list. As it turns out, cinnamon has more to offer than its aroma. It is high in cinnamaldehyde, loaded with antioxidants and rich in anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also great for lowering blood sugar and it can help fight against diabetes.
Fall superfood #2: Dates
Dates are as versatile as they are delicious. They can be the glue that holds a granola bar together as easily as they can be the main ingredient in a fruitcake. They are also high in a number of important minerals and vitamins. Grab a handful of dates and rest easy knowing that you’re ingesting calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium and zinc. It doesn’t stop there: you’re also gaining vitamin A, vitamin K and a list of other healthy treats.
Fall superfood #3: Butternut squash
Butternut squash is an excellent addition to any diet. This delightful food is high in potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and manganese, which is essential for keeping your bones healthy and strong. It can also be effective in helping to manage diabetes or prevent asthma. As an added bonus, butternut squash will keep your hair and skin looking healthy.
Fall superfood #4: Apples
It is true what they say: an apple a day keeps the doctor away. There is no better time to take an active role in fighting off colds and other seasonal annoyances. A single apple provides 14 percent of your daily vitamin C needs. They’re also high in soluble fiber and antioxidant compounds. This helps lower cholesterol and it’s great for your heart.
Fall superfood #5: Pumpkins
Who could forget the most recognizable of all fall foods? The pumpkin is more than just a favorite family carving tradition. It is also chock full of nutritional goodness. Pumpkins are an excellent source of vitamin A, with just one cup of mashed pumpkin delivering 200 percent of your daily needs. This is great for your vision. In addition, pumpkin can boost your immune system and deliver a healthy burst of potassium. Even pumpkin seeds are good for you, offering an amazing source of fiber.
— Erin Wildermuth
