Eating produce that’s in season locally means the fruits and veggies taste their best. Fall fruits and vegetables to look for as we enter a new season.
As fall begins, a whole new variety of fruits and vegetables are in season. It’s time for pumpkin spice, warm apple cider and hearty soups. Seasons always change, but something you want to stay constant is your health.
No one food, drink or supplement will ward off sickness. The secret to supporting a healthy immune system is a variety of nutritious foods. Take advantage of this new season by adding fresh fall fruits and vegetables to your meals.
These nutritious foods are in season in autumn:
- Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods, with a long list of health benefits. Try adding kale to smoothies and soup, or combine it with other greens for salads.
- Sweet potatoes pack a nutritional punch, with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Skip the marshmallows and keep sweet potatoes savory instead of sugary. Try a sweet potato breakfast hash or oven-roasted sweet potato fries.
- Apples and pears are high in fiber and can help with digestion. Try a baked apple with cinnamon for a healthy dessert. Try tucking slices of fresh pear into a panini or salad.
- Spaghetti squash, pumpkins, beets and carrots are examples of other seasonal produce that can help support your immune system. All of these can be roasted to bring out their natural earthy-sweet flavors that make them delicious side dishes or the basis for many vegetarian meals.
This information is presented by Health Plus, which provides resources to support the health of Vanderbilt University Medical Center faculty and staff.
