Fall is a wonderful time of year. Along with the beauty of the leaves changing, cooler temperatures and the bounty of fruits and vegetables now in season come shorter days and more time indoors. Just as the seasons change so should we to take full advantage of what this season has to offer while preserving our health and wellness.
Taking advantage of what the fall has to offer means eating foods grown during this time of year and slowing down in preparation for the winter season. Eating seasonally provides the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs specific to the season. Check out what’s in season now at http://snap.nal.usda.gov/nutrition-through-seasons/seasonal-produce. Incorporating these foods into soups, stews and warm hearty meals provide the warmth and moisture to combat the dry cool air that is now upon us.
Shorter days are nature’s way of telling us to slow down in preparation for the winter. Taking more time for yourself to relax and get more sleep is best. Adults should get a minimum of 7 hours of sleep nightly; children and infants a lot more. Even if you don’t adapt an earlier bedtime, decreasing scheduled activities will help.
Eating balanced meals that include protein, vegetables and fruit, healthy fat, and a small amount of whole grains will go a long way. Aim for a least 5 preferably 10 servings of local in-season vegetables and fruit daily for a stronger immune system. Time outside during sunny days, regular exercise and a Vitamin D3 supplement will help combat depressive moods that can occur during this time of year. Please consult with your Doctor and check Vitamin D levels before supplementing.
The goal is to help our bodies adapt to the changing season. This will help to reduce stress and illness. Enjoy the Fall Season!
Michelle Carrington, MS, CNS, LDN. Available for individual nutrition consults or group seminars. [email protected].
Fall is a wonderful time of year. Along with the beauty of the leaves changing, cooler temperatures and the bounty of fruits and vegetables now in season come shorter days and more time indoors. Just as the seasons change so should we to take full advantage of what this season has to offer while preserving our health and wellness.
Taking advantage of what the fall has to offer means eating foods grown during this time of year and slowing down in preparation for the winter season. Eating seasonally provides the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs specific to the season. Check out what’s in season now at http://snap.nal.usda.gov/nutrition-through-seasons/seasonal-produce. Incorporating these foods into soups, stews and warm hearty meals provide the warmth and moisture to combat the dry cool air that is now upon us.
Shorter days are nature’s way of telling us to slow down in preparation for the winter. Taking more time for yourself to relax and get more sleep is best. Adults should get a minimum of 7 hours of sleep nightly; children and infants a lot more. Even if you don’t adapt an earlier bedtime, decreasing scheduled activities will help.
Eating balanced meals that include protein, vegetables and fruit, healthy fat, and a small amount of whole grains will go a long way. Aim for a least 5 preferably 10 servings of local in-season vegetables and fruit daily for a stronger immune system. Time outside during sunny days, regular exercise and a Vitamin D3 supplement will help combat depressive moods that can occur during this time of year. Please consult with your Doctor and check Vitamin D levels before supplementing.
The goal is to help our bodies adapt to the changing season. This will help to reduce stress and illness. Enjoy the Fall Season!
