It’s Autumn! Crisp leaves on the ground crunching as you walk along and with the gentle breeze as the temperature starts to drop. The Fall season is also another opportunity to enjoy some of our favourite treats. Let us take a look and see some of the health benefits of these tasty treats!
Can autumn treats be healthy?
In short, yes. These Autumn treats can be healthy, however, this depends on the choice of treat, how it is prepared and if it is consumed in moderation. Like anything, too much of one thing can be bad for us so Autumn treats are no exception.
It’s important to enjoy these autumn treats in moderation, as excessive consumption of sugary or high-calorie versions can negate their health benefits. Additionally, the way these treats are prepared can greatly affect their nutritional value, so opting for healthier cooking methods is advisable.
For example, frying ingredients such as pumpkin seeds will most likely kill the nutrients which reduces the health benefits you would receive. Baking the foods is a healthier method since it requires minimal oil compared to frying as well as frying can lead to oxidation of oils.
Here are our top 7 delicious treats to enjoy during this Autumn season:
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can offer a variety of health benefits. They are also a good source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Pumpkin seeds contain the following:
- Magnesium
- Vitamin K
- Zinc
- Iron
- Antioxidants
Some of the potential health benefits of roasted pumpkin seeds include:
- Improved heart health. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of unsaturated fats, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Reduced blood sugar levels. Pumpkin seeds contain compounds that may help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Improved sleep quality. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted into melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep.
- Boosted immune system. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, a mineral that is essential for a healthy immune system.
- Improved prostate health. Pumpkin seeds have been shown to reduce inflammation and symptoms of enlarged prostate.
Cranberry Snacks
Cranberries can be sour however, they can benefit our health in several ways. Cranberries can be eaten in several ways such as:
- Dried cranberries
- Cranberry juice
- Cranberry sauce
- Cranberry yoghourt
- Cranberry smoothies
- Cranberry muffins
- Cranberry granola bars
Some of the health benefits from cranberries are:
- Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which are compounds that can prevent bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. This can help to prevent UTIs, which are common infections, especially in women.
- Improving oral health. Cranberries can help to prevent cavities and gum disease by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
- Boosting the immune system. Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function. Vitamin C can help to protect the body against infection and disease.
- Reducing the risk of heart disease. Cranberries contain antioxidants that can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood pressure. This can help to reduce the risk of heart disease, which is a leading cause of death worldwide.
- Protecting against cancer. Cranberries contain compounds that may help to protect against certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer.
In addition to these health benefits, cranberry snacks are also a good source of fibre and other nutrients. They are also a low-calorie snack, which makes them a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a snack that typically contains nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. It is a popular snack for hikers and other people who enjoy outdoor activities, but it is also a healthy and convenient snack for anyone to enjoy. Here are some of the benefits:
- High in protein. Nuts and seeds are a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein can also help you to feel full and satisfied after eating, which can help you to control your calorie intake.
- High in fibre. Nuts, seeds, and dried fruit are all good sources of fibre. Fibre helps to keep you feeling full and regular, and it can also help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control.
- High in healthy fats. Nuts and seeds are a good source of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals. Trail mix can be a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are essential for good health and can help to boost your immune system and improve your overall health and well-being.
- Convenient and portable. Trail mix is a convenient and portable snack that can be taken with you on the go. It is also a relatively shelf-stable snack, so it does not need to be refrigerated.
When choosing trail mix, it is important to select a product that is low in added sugar and salt. It is also important to choose a trail mix that contains a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit so that you can get the most benefit from all of the different ingredients.
Apples with Nut Butter
Apples with nut butter is a classic snack combination that is both delicious and nutritious. It is also a very versatile snack, as you can use any type of apple and any type of nut butter you like. You get the nutrients and vitamins from the app as well as the protein from the nut butter. Here are some other benefits of this snack:
- High in fibre and protein. Apples and nut butter are both good sources of fibre and protein, which can help you to feel full and satisfied after eating. This can help you to control your calorie intake and lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Good source of healthy fats. Nut butter is a good source of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals. Apples and nut butter are both good sources of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are essential for good health and can help to boost your immune system and improve your overall health and well-being.
- Portable and convenient. Apples and nut butter are both portable and convenient snacks that can be taken with you on the go. This makes them a great snack for people who are busy or who have an active lifestyle.
Overall, apples with nut butter is a healthy and delicious snack that can offer a variety of health benefits. It is a portable and convenient snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Warm Herbal Teas
Warm herbal teas are a delicious and comforting way to relax and enjoy the many health benefits of herbs. There are many options such as lavender or ginger tea. Here are a few of the most popular warm herbal teas to try this Autumn/Fall:
- Chamomile tea: Chamomile is a calming herb that is often used to promote relaxation and sleep. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Hibiscus tea: Hibiscus is a tart and tangy herb that is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also caffeine-free.
- Peppermint tea: Peppermint is a refreshing herb that is known for its digestive and respiratory benefits. It can also help to relieve headaches and migraines.
- Rooibos tea: Rooibos is a South African herb that is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also caffeine-free, making it a good choice for people who are sensitive to caffeine.
Warm herbal teas can be enjoyed at any time of day. They are especially popular in the evening, as they can help to promote relaxation and sleep.
Roasted Chestnuts
Roasted chestnuts are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in the fall and winter months. They are a good source of fibre, protein, and vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. Roasted chestnuts are also low in calories and fat.
Here are some health benefits of roasted chestnuts:
- High in fibre. Roasted chestnuts are a good source of fibre, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. It can also help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control.
- Good source of protein. Roasted chestnuts are a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein can also help you to feel full and satisfied after eating.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals. Roasted chestnuts are a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. Vitamin C is important for immune function, potassium is important for blood pressure regulation, and manganese is important for bone health.
- Low in calories and fat. Roasted chestnuts are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack or meal option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to these health benefits, roasted chestnuts are also a delicious and versatile food. They can be enjoyed on their own, or they can be added to soups, stews, salads, and other dishes.
Whole Grain Popcorn
Whole grain popcorn is a healthy and delicious snack that is low in calories and fat and high in fibre. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, magnesium, and iron. Here are some of the health benefits of whole grain popcorn:
- High in fibre. Whole grain popcorn is a good source of fibre, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. It can also help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control.
- Low in calories and fat. Whole grain popcorn is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy snack or meal option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals. Whole grain popcorn is a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, magnesium, and iron. Vitamin B6 is important for brain health, magnesium is important for muscle function, and iron is important for oxygen transport.
- Whole grain. Whole grain popcorn is a whole grain food, which means that it contains all three parts of the grain kernel: the bran, the germ, and the endosperm. Whole grains have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
Overall, whole grain popcorn is a healthy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a low-calorie, low-fat, and high-fibre food that is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Remember, all things are to be enjoyed in moderation and we should not over indulge in these. Just that they provide benefits to our health, that is when they are consumed in a balanced diet!
