5 Fall Foods That Can Help Keep Holiday Pounds Off
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With Thanksgiving and Christmas upon us, and leftover Halloween candy still laying around, so too is the annual battle of trying not to over-indulging in rich, high-calorie holiday foods. Luckily, some fall foods can actually help keep weight off before and in between holiday feasts.
According to Eat This, Not That, we should be looking for five delicious and nutritious autumn foods in the produce section. In the case of pumpkin, a canned product works well, too. Add these things to your grocery list:
- Pumpkin – Not just for pie, this fall staple is loaded with nutrients. Pumpkin is also high in fiber, so it keeps you full longer. Registered dietitian Mackenzie Burgess explains that pumpkin can help promote weight loss because it’s about 90% water, so it’s low in calories and full of vitamins and minerals. She suggests adding 100% canned pumpkin puree to soups, smoothies, and oatmeal. Roasted pumpkin seeds also contain healthy fats, magnesium and zinc, and help boost immunity. That’s especially important during this time of year.
- Apples – If you’ve been apple picking at a local farm, you’ll be glad to know your harvest can help you shed a few unwanted pounds. A large apple with skin has 5.4-grams of fiber, which is 19% of your daily value. Again, fiber helps keep you full. And a review of studies finds apples are linked to improved outcomes in weight management.
- Brussels sprouts – A little bitter, but high in fiber and low in calories. Nutritionist Dr. Lisa Young says, “This cruciferous veggie is the perfect weight-loss food.” Not a fan of the taste? Instead of steaming Brussels sprouts, try roasting them or air frying them for a more flavorful result that pairs well with a balsamic reduction.
- Butternut squash – Another low-cal, high-fiber food, butternut squash contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which research shows may help reduce your appetite. Registered dietitian Trista Best says, “This nutrient-rich food is a great way to aid in weight loss and immune support simultaneously.”
- Acorn squash – It might not be as popular as butternut, but acorn squash is still a healthy choice for weight loss. The fiber it contains helps us feel full and satisfied, which may lead to less snacking. Nutrition professor Dr. Joan Salge Blake suggests baking acorn squash with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Phil Harris is 50% of "Phil & Mel in the Afternoon" on K104.7. He has been with the station since 2013 and on the air in Charlotte since 2000. Before coming to the Queen City, Phil worked for radio stations in Pittsburgh, Austin, and Seattle. In addition to the weekly "Throwback Threesome" music video feature, Phil writes about things that matter to Charlotte sports fans and pet owners. He happens to be both.
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