Hitch Fit Living Magazine Volume 2 - September/October 2015 | Page 11

Add healthy harvested foods to your diet – Your nutrition needs to stay clean year round to maintain a lean physique, fall is the best time to take advantage of the freshly harvested foods that are available: Pumpkin - They’re not just great for making jack-o-lanterns! Pumpkin provides a wide variety of vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C, E, Riboflavin, Iron, Fiber and Potassium. They also contain carotenoids, which fight cancer and heart disease. Try adding pumpkin to your morning oatmeal, to salads, or to your favorite protein pancake recipe. Apples - They are in season and DEEElicious! If you live in a location where you can go and pick your own fresh in an orchard I highly recommend it. Apples are high in fiber, low in calories, plus provide your body with nutrients including potassium, vitamin C, calcium and folic acid. Apples with a bit of natural peanut butter or eaten alongside your mid morning protein shake are an excellent snack. Swiss Chard – One of my favorite foods to pick from the garden as a kid, these leafy greens are packed with Vitamins A and C and a good source of iron. Try it raw in your salad, steam it, boil it or cook it in a skillet with a small amount of olive oil. Brussel Sprouts - Another personal favorite! An excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K. They also give a dose of folate, manganese, Vitamin B6 & B1, choline, fiber, potassium, copper, phosphorus, and even Omega 3 fatty acids. Try them roasted with just a light coat of olive oil cooking spray and seasoning of choice. Additional in season fit foods – Avocados, beets, bok choy, watercress, broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes, parsnips, sweet potato, rutabaga, garlic, butternut squash, carrots, snow peas, cabbage, chestnuts, leeks, kale, collards and more! Spend some time in your local produce aisle or farmers market.