Fall Back into Shape!

The care-free days of summer, spending time with our families, and going away for holidays can often make leading a healthy lifestyle quite difficult. As the summer draws to an end, and we prepare ourselves for our usual routine, we can also get back to our health! The combination of getting back to our normal schedules, combined with the beautiful fall weather, and seasonal fall foods can reset our health goals!

There are a variety of fresh foods that are harvested during the Fall months and include the following:

Apples

Apples are an excellent source of dietary fibre and can help lower our blood cholesterol levels, improve bowel function, and reduce our risk for the development of Type II Diabetes. Apples contain an abundance of nutrients including Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Apples are also a rich source of antioxidants which combat oxidative stress in our bodies and help to improve cardiovascular health.

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are extremely low in calories and a great addition to any meal. Pumpkin gets its orange color from B-carotene which is an extremely powerful antioxidant and helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Pumpkins are also extremely rich in potassium and support kidney and heart function.

Cranberries

These brilliant little red berries are a source of fibre, Vitamins A and C, and also are a potent source of antioxidants. Cranberries help prevent and treat urinary tract infections by eliminating the growth of harmful bacteria that can adhere to the walls of the urinary tract. Cranberries also support optimal heart health by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol and improving vessel function.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are a powerful super food loaded with nutrients, antioxidants, minerals, and phytonutrients. Pomegranates are a rich source of dietary fibre and contain 40% of your daily nutrient intake! Nutrients found in pomegranates include Vitamin C, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Pomegranates improve hearth health by preventing the development of cardiovascular disease, lowering cholesterol levels, and reducing blood pressure.

For a Fall boost, you can have apples, pomegranates, and cranberries as snacks or even add them to your salads for a Fall twist! Pumpkin is quite tasty in various dishes and can be roasted in herbs or even used in desserts!

For a great Fall recipe, try the U Weight Loss® Pumpkin Pie Pudding!  Only 200 calories per serving!

Pumpkin Pie Pudding (2 servings)

Ingredients

1 1/2 scoop protein powder

1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

1/3 cup canned pumpkin

2 tsp honey

1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

3 oz Dannon vanilla yogurt

Preparation

Place all ingredients in mini food processor and blend until smooth.  Place in serving dishes and chill before serving!