Don’t Get Tricked Into The Wrong Treat: Nature’s Candy Delivers More Benefits than Halloween Candy
With fall in full swing and Halloween candy upon us, you might find yourself gravitating more towards the candy aisle than towards the produce. However, you may change your mind when you learn more about the benefits of nature’s fall candies—from squash to pumpkin to apples – and how delicious they can taste when used in recipes that taste so good, you won’t believe they are healthy! Did someone say Pumpkin Chia Pudding? Even better, these fall foods can increase energy, help improve your recovery, and in-turn, take your workouts to the next level.
Below are 6 recovery foods specific to the fall season that are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants to make you feel good, and won’t pack on the pounds. We challenge you to try them in some recipes and you may just forget about the Halloween candy, and instead, feel energized for Sunday’s long run or WOD.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
After you carve your jack-o-lantern, save those pumpkin seeds and roast them in the oven for a crunchy treat that your kids might even be “tricked” into eating. Pumpkin seeds are jam-packed with plant-based iron, fiber, healthy fat, and protein, which can increase immune function to help you to recover faster. And you can add some exciting flavors to your pumpkin seeds including chili lime, pumpkin spice, and classic salt and pepper.
2. Pumpkin
While pumpkin seeds pack a great protein and iron punch, the rest of the pumpkin is also full of wholesome goodness. One cup of mashed pumpkin contains over 200% of your total recommended daily intake of vitamin A, which can keep your eyes healthy, especially when trying to focus in dim light. Looking for a way to shake up your recipe book with some pumpkin additions? Try a Paleo pumpkin custard or delicious pumpkin curry to cozy up with on a brisk fall evening.
3. Squash
If you are looking for a vegetable with some serious benefits, look no further than squash. There are multiple different types of squash to choose from, all with medicinal benefits including improving immune system strength, cancer prevention, reducing insomnia, and even reducing inflammation. Try using spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a delicious, healthy dinner.
4. Apples
Head to your local farmer’s market and you can appreciate just how many varieties of apples there are available. From Granny Smith to Jonathan, apples range from tart to sweet and apple skin contains flavonoids, which are full of antioxidants, heart healthy, and full of fiber. An apple a day really just might keep the doctor away.
5. Brussels Sprouts
This leafy vegetable is not always at the top of the produce love list, but these little greens are bursting with nutrients. Not only are they a good source of protein, but Brussels sprouts are also full of potassium, iron, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants. Try steaming Brussels sprouts and then adding olive oil and fresh garlic for a tasty side dish that will make your taste buds and body, very happy.
6. Rutabaga
Ruta-what? While rutabaga might not be an item that you typically find yourself going to the store for, this cross between cabbage and turnip might be something you start adding to your basket. Rutabaga is a good source of vitamin C and fiber, and can make a wonderful fall soup, or a delicious side, simply roasted with ginger and honey.
Once you’ve cooked up some tasty dishes with these fall ingredients, sit back and get cozy with your Marc Pro or Marc Pro Plus unit to really get your recovery going.
Do you have a fall favorite recipe? Let us know by tweeting your recipe at Marc Pro (@themarcpro)! The best fall recipe will win a Marc Pro prize!