Healthy Habits - Harvest Health This Autumn With These Immune-Boosting Foods!

 There are several ways to boost your immune system, but one of the most important is eating the right foods, says Amy, founder of Food and Mood Lab.

"There is a lot of information on the internet about immune-boosting foods, which can be confusing! As a nutritionist and certified functional food professional, I can tell you that ANY nutrient-dense food (think lean protein, whole grains, and veggies vs. fast foods) that's rich in vitamins and minerals is an immune superfood."

Here are some healthy vegetables in season for the fall harvest:

Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are packed with a ton of immune-boosting vitamin A and fiber. They are also versatile — stuff them, make healthy fries, use them as a base for pizza, or even incorporate them as zoodles. 

Pumpkin: Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamin K and zinc, a mineral that helps the immune system fight bacteria and viruses. Swap sunflower seeds or your nut of choice with pumpkin seeds this time of year, and add them to your oatmeal, salads, or yogurts. 

Pomegranate: Pomegranates contain high antioxidants, vitamin C, and other vitamins and minerals that are immunity boosters. In almost any grocery, you can find pomegranate juice, pomegranate seeds, and pomegranate-based supplements. Pomegranate seeds add a nice, sweet punch to salads, or try adding a handful to your side dishes like orzo or rice. 

Cranberries: Cranberries are the super berry! They are high in nutrients and antioxidants and are easy to incorporate into your diet. Throw them in salads and yogurts or make a trail mix with almonds (and pumpkin seeds!). 

Apples: An apple a day keeps the doctor away! Apples are chock-full of antioxidants and vitamin C. They are linked to many benefits, including reducing cholesterol and lowering the risks of cancer and asthma. Trade in your typical afternoon snack for an apple or chop into small pieces as a topper for cereal or oats. 

Find more tips for eating and health on Amy’s Food and Mood YouTube Channel.

About Amy Fox: Master nutritionist Amy Fox is on a mission to educate everyone about how our food choices affect our health and happiness. A Certified Nutritionist and Certified Functional Food Professional, Amy is principal consultant with TiER1 Performance Solutions and founder of Food and Mood Lab. Learn more at foodandmoodlab.com.