Autumn: the leaves are changing, the air is becoming crisp, and the delicious aroma of pumpkin spice everything fills the air. Many people start planning for the holidays, which are just around the corner. In doing so, we sometimes get out of our good habits and fall into the groove of sweet treats and staying indoors where it’s warm. Even though the air temperature and leaves are changing for the season, your healthy habits don’t have to!
Even though a new season of treats and goodies are starting to show up, remember to make good choices. Fall is the season of pies, Halloween candy by the boatload, and tons of holiday-themed snacks, not to mention the return of those delicious pumpkin spice lattes! Keep in mind that, even though these treats are delicious, many of them are packed with sugar, which can certainly derail your healthy eating habits or doctor-recommended diet. You can still enjoy the flavors of the fall without overindulging. Keep moderation in mind. Also, find healthy ways to enjoy your favorite fall foods, such as pumpkin.
Speaking of keeping your choices on the healthy side, game day snacks don’t have to be unhealthy for you to enjoy your favorite sports. Try replacing high-calorie chicken wings with veggie sticks and low-calorie ranch dip. Try substituting beef in game day chili with turkey; or, for a totally new spin, make veggie chili!
Of course, fall is the season of the common cold. Give the cold a one-two punch by keeping your exercise regimen on track and increasing your vitamin C intake. Vitamin C can be found in foods like yogurt, and also, your favorite fall gourd, pumpkin! Remember, when exercising, drink plenty of water and get outdoors. Being outdoors helps your body soak up the sun’s rays, which help your body make vitamin D to further heave off a cold.
Even though many summer vegetables are out of season, there are still some fresh vegetables that are in season. Beets are a delicious addition to a fall spread. Greens like collards, mustard, and turnip give you the opportunity to ingest good, healthy fiber and vitamins, and can be prepared as a delicious warm treat for a cool fall day. Members of the mustard family, such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are in season, and can help you add green to your plate.
Of course, fall is the time to get a flu shot. Influenza, if not treated or prevented, can be deadly. At the very least, it can kill your productivity or keep you out of work for a few days. Get with your doctor or local pharmacy to schedule an appointment to have your flu shot. It could save you a lot of trouble, or, perhaps, your life!
Keep yourself in line with these healthy reminders. Also, enjoy the changing seasons and beautiful weather while it’s here!
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