Soon the weather will be getting cooler, but before you reach for all things pumpkin spice consider, some of the healthy seasonal foods of fall. The season brings a bounty of foods that will provide both nutrition and a festive flare to a healthy diet.

Here are just a few of those choices:

Apples

This delicious fall staple is satisfying whether in baked goods like the famous apple pie or simply eaten own their own. Apples are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of fiber. To find ideas for fun recipes and more on health benefits, check out the U.S. Apple Association.

Squash

An obvious but important addition to our fall foods list is squash – including pumpkins. Squash has made a name for itself as much more than a fall decoration. The seeds can be a delightful snack and are packed with magnesium and fiber, while the squash itself is known for massive amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, the B vitamins and anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant compounds.

Sweet Potatoes

These veggies are for much more than holiday casseroles. This versatile fall food can be served sweet and dusted with brown sugar in a variety of ways or perhaps served mashed and paired with grilled chicken and asparagus. Whatever satisfies your taste buds, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin B6 and have high levels of vitamin C and vitamin D, as well.

Brussel Sprouts

The vegetable we sometimes love to hate, Brussel sprouts – when cooked properly – actually taste divine. An excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B6, fiber, folate and manganese, they provide support to three key areas of the body: its detox system, the antioxidant system and the body’s inflammatory/anti-inflammatory system.

Pears

With their sweet and juicy taste, this fruit is a real crowd-pleaser. Cooking can bring out their great flavor, so try them baked, poached or in some delicious preserves. Pears are an excellent source of vitamin C, copper and fiber.

Cranberries

Frozen, dried or fresh, cranberries deliver high amounts of vitamin C and fiber to reduce inflammation and the risk of heart disease. Besides tasting amazing next to our holiday bird, they are rich in antioxidants that repair cell damage done to our bodies, as well.

This is just a sampling of the healthy choices we have this season.  The added bonus of eating seasonal foods is the cost savings, and depending on which fall samplings you choose, you might be able to support local farmers by purchasing their fresh produce.

By Sherry Jolley, Red Bay Hospital