Autumn Superfoods
As the golden hues of autumn settle in, the crisp air reminds us of the beauty of change and the importance of nourishing our bodies for the season ahead. I’ve always believed that nature provides exactly what we need at just the right time. And with autumn, we’re blessed with a bounty of superfoods that can help us not only stay healthy but also reverse the effects of aging from the inside out!
One of my absolute favorites? Pumpkin Seeds!
These little powerhouses may be small, but they pack a big punch. Pumpkin seeds are known to:
- Support a healthy heart with magnesium
- Boost immunity with zinc (essential as the weather cools!)
- Prevent cancer (especially breast and prostate cancers) thanks to powerful antioxidants
- Balance your hormones and regulate blood sugar, keeping those cravings in check
Honestly, I munch on these daily. They're that good!
But caution: The other day I was offered pumpkin spiced pumpkin seeds and I was curious and hungry at that moment...it was the nastiest thing I've tasted in years! Ew! I do not recommend harmful flavorings anyway. Pumpkin seeds are delicious on their own! Yummy when roasted and salted :)
But pumpkin seeds aren’t the only gift this season brings. Two other superstars are:
Butternut Squash
Rich in vitamins A and C, butternut squash gives your skin that youthful glow we all love, helping to keep wrinkles at bay. It’s also full of fiber, keeping your digestion on point and your tummy happy.
Cranberries
Known for their ability to prevent urinary tract infections, cranberries are also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. They help fight free radicals that cause aging (yes, please!) and support healthy cholesterol levels. I love tossing them into salads for that tart little zing. And if you care about someone who happens to have a prostate--they should make cranberries part of their daily intake!
So, in the spirit of slowing down and cozying up this season, here's a quick, nutrient-packed autumn recipe that features all three of these superfoods. These days I like to keep meals simple and easy to prepare. I enjoy making this salad because it's simple, delicious, and loaded with the goodness your body craves right now.
Autumn Superfood Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (lightly toasted and salted with fine sea salt)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- A handful of mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula – whatever you like--I prefer arugula!)
- A sprinkling of feta cheese
Dressing:
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (shake to get the Mother mixed in for benefits to the gut microbiome)
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- A pinch of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Toss your greens with the roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
- Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup to make the dressing.
- Drizzle over your salad, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and give everything a good toss.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese if desired
- Enjoy this beautiful, vibrant dish that’ll leave you feeling energized and nourished!
Give it a try, and I promise you’ll feel the autumn glow from the inside out.
As we transition into this new season, remember that the energy around us can support our inner healing and renewal. Just like the leaves fall to make way for new growth, we, too, can shed what no longer serves us and fill ourselves with all the good, delicious nourishment that nature offers.
