5 Seasonal Health Foods to Try This Fall

Changing leaves and lower temperatures mean we’re entering the season of cozy flavors and hearty, nutrient-dense foods. The Rancho Cucamonga weight loss surgeons at Surgical Arts of Inland Empire love sharing ideas for tasty, seasonal foods that both nourish your body and support your health goals. Here are five trendy, health-boosting foods you’ll want to add to your grocery list this fall!

1. Persimmons

Persimmons are a sweet boost for heart and skin health. These bright orange fruits are as beautiful as they are nutritious, packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support skin health and boost immunity. Being naturally sweet makes them perfect for satisfying sugar cravings without refined sugars. Persimmons are easy to enjoy this fall by adding them to a salad, blending them into a smoothie, or by themselves as a snack!

2. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are one of the season’s most versatile vegetables, especially if you’re looking for a savory addition to your meal. They are filled with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, to help keep you feeling full and support digestion. Roasting them in the oven with a bit of olive oil until perfectly crisp can bring out a nutty flavor you can enjoy as a delicious side dish, or try pairing them with balsamic glaze and roasted nuts for an added layer of crunch and sweetness!

3. Cranberries

While cranberries are often overlooked outside of Thanksgiving, these tart and tangy berries are full of antioxidants and nutrients that promote urinary tract health and may even help prevent certain infections. Fresh cranberries can be a bit sour, so try adding a handful to your smoothie or baking them into healthy, whole-grain muffins for a burst of fall flavor.

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4. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a fall staple, and for good reason. They may be beloved as a common “comfort food,” but they’re loaded with energy-boosting complex carbohydrates, fiber, and beta-carotene, which helps keep your skin glowing and supports a healthy immune system. You can prepare sweet potatoes in near-countless ways: Roast them with a dash of cinnamon and olive oil for just the right amount of sweetness, or mash them and lightly season for a more savory side dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

5. Pomegranate

You know it’s fall when pomegranates line the produce aisle. Their tiny nibs are actually antioxidant powerhouses, with polyphenols that promote heart health and may reduce inflammation. Pomegranates add a festive, jewel-tone color and juicy sweet-tart crunch to salads, yogurt bowls, or oatmeal. Bonus: harvesting and then eating pomegranate seeds can be a fun, meditative activity that turns snack time into a mindful moment!

Embracing the flavors of the season keeps things fun and fresh and can help you stick to your nutrition goals without feeling deprived as you work toward weight loss. Not sure where to start? Contact our team at Surgical Arts of Inland Empire to learn more about making healthier choices or to discuss how our weight loss solutions can support your journey. Call our Rancho Cucamonga weight loss center at 909-579-3111 today so we can help you feel and look your best this fall and beyond!