Ah, the fall. Truly my favorite time of year. Not just the amazing smells and flavors that begin to emerge with changes in the garden, but the sense of community. With the incredible weather, we’re all out and about at festivals, apple picking, and so many other outdoor events that seem a little more yummy now that the weather isn’t quite as hot.
Sure, seasonal allergies and flus abound this season, but knock on wood—I rarely get sick, and I swear it’s because of my healthy eating and exercise habits. When it comes to eating, one of my favorite sayings is “crowd out†the bad foods with an abundance of good choices, and it all feels a bit easier and more intentional in the fall. After working at the beach all summer with no set routine, the fall brings new classes at the gym, enlightening Longevity Labs and a cornucopia of food choices (cute play on Thanksgiving approaching, right?). I think it’s the easiest time to stay healthy!
My Mantra: Eat Seasonally and Locally
When we buy local foods in season we are blessed with their immune-supporting benefits. You’ve probably heard about the importance of eating local honey, but do you know why? It exposes you to local pollens and strengthens your immune system by building your tolerance to them. I feel that eating local veggies does the same thing!
Did I tell you that I’m studying to be a macrobiotic practitioner? The theory I love the most is simple: eat what is grown in your area when it is in season. I am positive this is what keeps me going all year long.
Simple, Seasonal and SO Good
Just before heading home from the shore, I ran to the very last farmer’s market in Ocean City and grabbed the first crop of drum roll…apples! How lucky was I? Apples are delicious and packed with fiber, antioxidants, and natural prebiotics that support gut health…which is key to immunity. You know the saying….an apple a day. So silly, but so true.
Apples alone are amazing, but if you peel, slice and cook them down with just a cinnamon stick it makes a great topping for yogurt or cottage cheese in the morning and a chutney for grilled meat at dinner. Plus, cinnamon is antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, so it’s a double win.
But really, this time of year you can usually find me making soups and stews. I think they are the easiest ways to get all the season’s bounty into one meal. My favorite soup, which connects the summer and the fall, is minestrone. Be sure to check out my recipe below.
As the weather gets a little colder, I make a chickpea and cauliflower stew that is so scrumptious and SO healthy. It’s filled with powerful spices like ginger and turmeric that keep inflammation and hunger at bay.  Want to try it yourself? Here’s my recipe!
Move Outdoors
It’s not just food that keeps us well—it’s how we move. I do love my gym classes, but I still make sure to get outside with the dogs every day. It’s so important to connect with nature daily to get vitamin D, which we all desperately need for our immune system and bone health. For me, the gorgeous Valley Forge National Historic Park is right around the corner with miles of beautiful trails that the dogs love as much as me….and wait until winter, the snowshoeing is magical!
Did Anyone Say ‘Pumpkin?’
I would be totally remiss not mentioning the crowd favorite….pumpkin spice. The smell alone is divine! Many stores and restaurants are filled with sugary, processed versions, but I’m opting for healthy choices like pumpkin spice protein powder to add to my morning yogurt. SO good! With a little bit of those cooked apples, I will be smiling all day.
A Final Note ….Breast Cancer Awareness
Spreading awareness of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is very important to me. That’s why my team and I have created three yummy pink items, and throughout October we’re donating a portion of every sale to Unite for HER, an organization that is close to my heart. It’s a PA-based national nonprofit that provides integrative therapies and support to breast and ovarian cancer patients at no cost to them, thanks to generous contributions.
So stop by Aneu and try our delicious Power of Pink smoothies, pink frosted sugar cookies or brownies with pink frosting drizzle. Your taste buds and your community with thank you!
Happy fall, everyone!
