9 Fast Facts About Fall Foods one this is very seasonal

9 Fast Facts About Fall Foods one this is very seasonal

With a chill in the air and a palette of colors as the leaves change, fall beckons for its own incredible bounty of edible health. From pumpkin spice to root vegetables, fall flavors are not just comforting; they come with health benefits and cultural significance. Here are 9 fall food speed facts that will surprise and delight you!
Pumpkin Is More Than a Decoration

Pumpkins are more than a Halloween decoration or a Thanksgiving pie; they also pack a nutritional punch. Packed with vitamin A, fiber and antioxidants, pumpkin promotes eye health, strengthens immunity and helps with digestion. Plus, its seeds — known as pepitas — are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats.
Quick Tip:

Season pumpkin seeds with a pinch of sea salt and paprika and roast for a crunchy fall snack!
Fall Is Apple Season

Apples are available all year-round, but fall is peak season, with the best of them being fresh and crisp. Apple orchards pick their best varieties in September and October, so this is the season for apple picking. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C and polyphenols, which are ingredients that aid digestion and heart health.
Fun Fact:

There are more than 7,500 varieties of apples in the world, with Granny Smith, Honeycrisp and Fuji ranking among the most popular in fall.
Sweet Potatoes Are Superfoods

Sweet potatoes are a common fall vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene. Sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index than the regular one, which helps us to feel less aggressive as these potatoes release their energy slowly and without any glucose spikes.
How to Enjoy:

Make them into mash, roast them or fry up sweet potato fries — there are many ways to enjoy this autumn produce!

Cranberries Are Inherently Low in Sugar

When people think of cranberries, the first thing that comes to mind is often Thanksgiving — yet few know that fresh cranberries are low in sugar and loaded with antioxidants. They also help fight urinary tract infections (UTIs), lower inflammation and support gut health.
Health Tip:

Choose unsweetened cranberry juice or toss fresh cranberries into oatmeal for a sour, healthy kick.
Brussels Sprouts, a Thriving Cold-Weather Champion

Brussels sprouts, members of the cruciferous vegetable family, develop a sweeter taste after being bitten by frost. Their high vitamin K and C content aids bone health and immunity. When roasted, they take on a delicious caramelized flavor, and thus they make a great side dish for fall meals.
Cooking Idea:

Make Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil, balsamic glaze and pecans, and you have a savory autumn treat.
Pears Provide a Different Nutritional Kick

Pears tend to get overlooked in favor of apples, but they’re just as healthy. Pears are high in fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory, which aids gut health and digestion. With their high water content, they also offer a natural way to stay hydrated.
Fun Fact:

Pears ripen after they’re picked, so allow them to sit at room temperature for several days before consuming.
Cinnamon Has Unexpected Health Benefits

Cinnamon is not only a very delicious spice, but also has very powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This seasonal favorite helps control blood sugar levels, aids in digestion and even boosts brain function.
Quick Tip:

Sprinkle a little cinnamon in your morning coffee or on your oatmeal for a warm, spicy taste and health advantages.

The Fall Brings a Bounty of Squashes

From all varieties of butternut and acorn squash to spaghetti squash, this seasonal vegetable family is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Squash is an autumn-cooking must-have for its immune-boosting vitamin C and gut-friendly fiber.
Cooking Idea:

Roast butternut squash with garlic and rosemary or make a creamy squash soup for a warm fall dinner.
Mushrooms Love Fall’s Moist Environment

Many wild mushrooms—chanterelles, porcini and shiitake—thrive in the wet autumnal climate. These mushrooms contain B vitamins, antioxidants, and immune-boosting compounds. Not to mention they contribute a deep, umami flavor to autumnal fare.
How to Use:

Sauté mushrooms with garlic and thyme, or add them to soups, pasta and risottos for a hearty, earthy flavor.
Final Thoughts

Fall foods are delicious, comforting and incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re savoring a steaming bowl of butternut squash soup, sipping spicy apple cider or roasting fall veggies, autumnal flavors deliver a combination of health benefits and culinary inspiration.