Food as Medicine: May 2025

November Nutrition Tips November is all about cozy meals, immune support, and making the most of late fall produce before winter sets in. Here’s how to stay nourished and energized as the days grow shorter: 🥦 Seasonal Produce to Prioritize Brussels sprouts – High in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Roast with olive oil and garlic. Sweet potatoes – Rich in beta-carotene and complex carbs. Great for mashing, roasting, or adding to stews. Cranberries – Packed with vitamin C and polyphenols. Use fresh or dried in salads, oatmeal, or sauces. Cauliflower – Versatile and nutrient-dense. Try it roasted, riced, or blended into soups. Apples & Pears – Still in season and perfect for baking, snacking, or simmering into compotes. 🧣 Immune-Boosting Strategies Vitamin D – With less sunlight, consider fortified foods like milk, cereal, or mushrooms. Zinc-rich foods – Beans, nuts, and whole grains help support immune function. Probiotics – Yogurt, kefir, and fermented veggies like sauerkraut keep your gut healthy. 🥘 Smart Comfort Food Swaps Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in dips and mashed potatoes. Make stuffing with whole grain bread and add chopped veggies for fiber. Choose roasted veggies over creamy casseroles for lighter sides. 💡 Bonus Tip: Prep for Holiday Eating Eat a balanced breakfast to avoid overindulging later. Stay hydrated—cooler weather can mask thirst. Focus on portion control and savor seasonal flavors mindfully.

October Nutrition Tips October is a cozy, transitional month-perfect for embracing warm flavors, immune-boosting foods, and seasonal produce. Here's how to nourish yourself as the leaves fall and the air turns crisp: 🎃 Embrace Autumn's Harvest Pumpkin & Squash - Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and potassium. Roast them, puree into soups, or bake into muffins. Sweet Potatoes - A powerhouse of vitamin A and complex carbs. Try them mashed, roasted, or in chili. Apples & Pears - High in fiber and antioxidants. Great for snacking, baking, or tossing into salads. 🍂 Immune Support for Cooler Days Citrus fruits - Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are loaded with vitamin C. Garlic & Onions - Natural antimicrobials that add depth to fall dishes. Leafy greens - Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are still in season and packed with nutrients. 🧣 Smart Seasonal Swaps Trade cold smoothies for warm oatmeal topped with nuts and fruit. Swap raw salads for roasted veggie bowls with grains and legumes. Use cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to add warmth and flavor without extra sugar. 🥘 Cozy Meal Ideas Butternut squash soup with ginger and coconut milk Apple cinnamon overnight oats Stuffed bell peppers with rice, beans, and fall spices Hearty lentil stew with carrots and sweet potatoes 🍂 Fighting Food Waste with Fall Produce