Don’t let the end of summer be the end of enjoying healthy produce. The shortening days and falling temperatures aren't excuses to stop eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Fall has its own list of fresh produce to take advantage of in the kitchen and because it’s in season, you’ll also benefit at the cash register with lower prices.

There’s still time to take advantage of fall farmer’s markets and now local apple orchards and pumpkin patches are open and fun places to pick up healthy groceries.

1. Apples and pears are abundant in Centra
   Image

   
   l Illinois during this time of year. Apples and pears can be easily added to a smoothie, a salad, or eaten alone as a healthy and convenient weekday snack. Take advantage of the fall season and experiment with satisfying apple and pear recipes, just be sure to eat the skin to ensure that you are taking advantage of the 4 grams of fiber.


2. Cauliflower is one of the most versatile fall vegetables; it lowers cholesterol and contains cancer fighting compounds. Add it to a salad for extra crunch, steam it as a side dish, or roast it with olive oil and enjoy as a main course.


3. Pumpkin is not only in season, but local to the Central Illinois region. Add pumpkin to your diet to enjoy the boost of potassium, fiber, and Vitamin B. Experimenting with healthy pumpkin muffin recipes, pumpkin soups, and roasted pumpkin seeds may just satisfy your craving for pumpkin-spiced everything this fall and help you stay away from the unhealthy pumpkin treats!


4. Sweet potatoes aren’t only for Thanksgiving, but should be enjoyed all fall as a source of Vitamin A and iron. You don’t need to add brown sugar and marshmallows to enjoy the savory fall taste in a convenient, easy to transport weekday lunch.


5. Broccoli’s health benefits include Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folate and fiber and its versatile use makes it essential for any healthy grocery list. Add it to a fall soup, a fresh salad, or steam it as a side dish to enjoy the health benefits throughout the season.

Taking advantage of the fall flavors in your meal plan may free up time to check out a new class at FitClub this fall! If you spent the summer getting in shape, the changing season is a good time to change up your produce lineup and your workout plan. Variety in both produce and workout plan will not only keep you motivated and healthy all year long, but may also give your body new nutritional rewards and your muscles a new challenge.

If you have your own healthy fall recipes, share them in the comment section with your fellow FitClub members!