Taste the Health Benefits of Fall Produce

Fall brings a harvest of colorful, nutrient-rich foods that add variety to your meals and help support your immune system. Seasonal produce is often fresher, more flavorful, and more affordable, offering an easy way to bring both nourishment and value to your meals as cold and flu season approaches.

Fall Produce to Add to Your Plate

Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, apples support digestion and immunity. Try them sliced with nut butter or baked with cinnamon.

Winter Squash (butternut, acorn, spaghetti): High in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A to keep your eyes, skin, and immune system strong. Roast them for a hearty side dish or blend into soup. 

Sweet Potatoes: Rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamin A, these may help regulate blood pressure, keep you feeling full, and support immune health. Bake, mash, or cube for grain bowls. Try these Garlic Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes.

Leafy Greens (kale, collards, Swiss chard): Excellent sources of vitamin K, folate, and minerals that help ward off disease. Sauté with garlic or add to stews for a nutrient boost.

Pears: Juicy and high in soluble fiber, which feeds the good bacteria in your gut and supports digestion. They’re also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and make a naturally sweet snack or salad topper.

Why It Matters

A plate filled with fruits and vegetables does more than satisfy hunger. Balanced diets rich in produce are linked to a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. The fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins in seasonal foods also support gut health, which plays a big role in both immunity and mental well-being. By leaning into fall’s bounty, you give your body the tools it needs to stay resilient through the season.

This Monday, add at least one seasonal fruit or vegetable to your meals. Explore what’s fresh at your market and enjoy the flavors of autumn on your plate.