The leaves are changing. It’s getting colder. The pants and coats are coming out and we’re skipping shaving and pedicures… let’s face it, we’re really letting ourselves go. So, what are a few extra pieces of pumpkin pie going to do… kill us?
No. Unless we’re diabetic, we’ll live. But think about this... If we were to partake of a mere 100 extra calories a day, we’d be packing an extra 10 pounds by next fall. Yikes.
So, here are some handy dandy tips for fall foods to indulge in – and ones to enjoy sparingly.
Fruits and veggies are always good, so hit the clementines, pomegranates, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, light stews (not too creamy), root vegetables, and spaghetti squash (with fewer calories and more fiber, it’s a great substitute for pasta). Even partake of pumpkin, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes… just be sure you’re not enjoying them with extra butter or sugar!
And who doesn’t want a hot chocolate this time of year? Well, this is one place to ease up and not go too crazy. An occasional treat is fine, but if you’re just craving something warm, go for tea instead.
Be more conservative around Octoberfest fare, Halloween candy, and Thanksgiving feasts. It doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the foods that go hand-in-hand with these events, but just do so in moderate portions. Load up your plate with healthier fare (like fruits and veggies) and then add a garnish of the heavier stuff. If you want to indulge a little more, then don’t forget to work it over.
Fall provides other pleasures like great hiking and biking. Whether you indulge or not, do yourself a favor and get outside.
Health
The whole point is to feel better this season… and a bonus is not having to pull out the fat pants next fall.
