DLJ Produce

When temperatures suddenly drop, many people become more susceptible to sickness. Whether it’s the flu, a nagging cough, or a can’t-breathe-style cold, these ailments are a horrible way to greet the fall season. But don’t stress out too much. By eating fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals, you can stave off illness and enjoy all of the great things that come with autumn — especially the food.

1. Pumpkins

Pumpkins are enjoyed across the world, but for whatever reason, most Americans opt solely for pumpkin spice lattes and the Thanksgiving classic — pumpkin pie. However, pumpkin is a healthy food that’s also quite tasty if prepared correctly.

Pumpkin has numerous health benefits, including beta carotene, around 250% of your daily vitamin A, vitamin C, and a number of other vitamins and minerals that keep you happy and healthy.

If you’re not sure how to eat pumpkin, try a simple soup. Just add butter, pumpkin, chicken broth, a touch of cream, and your favorite spices. Simmer and enjoy.

2. Apples

What is it about the fall that immediately conjures up visions of apples? Maybe it’s because these delicious morsels can be enjoyed in so many ways that it’s just a staple of the season.

However, apples also pack a punch in terms of nutrition, providing the vitamin C, vitamin B6, and antioxidants you need to remain healthy throughout the season.

While you could dip an apple in chocolate or caramel, it’s not exactly a great use of your daily calories. Instead, you may want to try an apple salad with greens, lemon, and lentils or even just saute them as a nice appetizer or side dish.

3. Brussel Sprouts

Although the words may conjure up memories of your parents telling you to eat them, brussel sprouts are surprisingly nutritious and tastier than you remember. Just a one-cup serving of brussel sprouts supplies you with almost a daily dose of vitamin C, which is the mother of all immune system-boosting vitamins.

Though admittedly bitter, brussel sprouts are a versatile vegetable, and you can cook them in a variety of ways. Baking them with a bit of butter and bacon are a great addition to any meal and aren’t all that unhealthy (depending on your levels of butter and bacon). You could also roast them with a bit of olive oil, parmesan, and garlic for a treat that screams fall.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries are another fall treat that are synonymous with the season, primarily because they’re in harvest between September and November. While some may find cranberries too tart, they’re surprisingly less tart than you may think if you prepare them correctly. Plus, they’re extra nutritious.

Packed with vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as other immune-boosting antioxidants, cranberries can keep you from getting sick, as well as prevent urinary tract infections, stomach ulcers, and even cardiovascular disease.

Plus, you can add them to anything. Put a handful on cereal or oatmeal, make some cranberry muffins, or even throw some on a salad. There’s no wrong way to enjoy a cranberry.

If you’re eating fruits and vegetables to keep you healthy, don’t opt for canned or frozen foods. Not only may they lack the same number of vitamins and minerals, but they also lack something that’s just as important: flavor. By buying fresh, in-season produce, you can make sure that you’re always getting the best taste and nutrition for the fall and winter ahead.

Enjoy these fall fresh produce tips from DLJ Produce, your nationwide produce supplier.  Customers love our crunchy grapes, tree fruits, and fresh vegetables available 365 days a year.  Look for the DLJ Produce label at your local grocer.