Food x Self Care: Fall into Flavor

Self care is the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health. Back in August I wrote a blog about food as a form of self care. The foods we eat are direct reflection of how we care for ourselves which contributes to our long term health and quality of life.

Although I do eat indulgent foods at times, I try to do so in moderation. The goal is to eat more foods that fuel my life and allow me live flavorFULLY (meaning to live deliciously, always in tune with myself and a live a life filled with variety, satisfaction and joy!) Luckily that doesn’t mean I have to compromise on enjoying seasonal dishes, and you don’t have to either! Here are some of the health benefits classic Fall foods and Flavors! Let me know your favorite seasonal foods/ flavors!

Health Benefits of Seasonal Fall Favorites

Pumpkin

Antioxidant rich | Boosts Immunity | More Vitamin A than Kale | More Potassium than Bananas | Supports overall Heart Health

Sweet Potato

Great source of Vitamin A | Helps Manage Diabetes |Magnesium that helps reduce stress and Anxiety | Choline that reduces inflammation

Sage

Protects against headaches and sore throats | Can support memory and brain health | Full of antioxidants | May support oral health

Pear

Can boost heart health | Promotes healthy gut | Fights free Radicals | High water content | Good source of Vitamins C, K and Potassium

Pecan

Improves Digestion | May help lower Cholesterol levels | Boost Immunity | Prevents Skin Problems | High Quality source of Protein

Maple

High in Antioxidants | Fights Inflammatory Diseases | Healthier alternate to sugar | Helps boost energy

Cinnamon

Lowers Blood Sugar | Helps fight Bacterial and Fungal Infections | Can Help with Acne | Helps decrease responses to stress

Apple

Promotes Good Heart Health | Low in Soluble Fiber | Promotes good gut Bacteria | Can help fight Asthma

Butternut Squash

Prevents High Blood Pressure | Packed with fiber promotes healthy bacteria in the gut | Improves eyesight | Keeps bones strong | Boosts Immunity

Chai

Supports Immune System | Improves Digestion | Alleviates Nausea | Energy Boosting | Regulates Cholesterol | Has weight loss properties