It's officially October 1st and fall is in the air. Well, not literally here in Louisiana, but in our pumpkin shaped coffee mugs, festive door decor, and FOOTBALL! Inside we are totally ready to embrace the new season, but unfortunately, we will have to practice a bit of patience as temperatures are still quite warm.

As we hold out hope of the first cool breeze. You know the one. The crisp air arrives and everyone opens their windows to enjoy every second of the fallen leaves dancing in the street and the sweet aroma of apple-cinnamon in the air! Ahhh, can you just feel it?

Who says you have to wait- Autumn is starting now and bringing delicious fruits and veggies that are jam packed with vital nutrients, classifying them as SUPERFOODS. Take your meal or snack to the next level by incorporating these delicious and healthy ideas into your day.

1. APPLES

Crisp, sweet, refreshing, and true symbol of fall. Apples also provide our bodies with lasting energy, plenty of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can be enjoyed right from the tree, in cider, or in recipes.

2. PEARS

Sweet and juicy. Can be eaten cooked or raw. Both the skin and flesh are packed with fiber. The duel fiber content helps to improve digestive health, lower cholesterol levels, and moderate blood sugars. Provides vitamin C and copper.

3. RUTABAGA

A cross between cabbage and a turnip this vegetable has a sweet and earthy flavor. Delicious mashed with butter instead of potatoes or spiralized in place of noodles. speared like a french fry, or raw and grated in a salad. Full of fiber and vitamin C. If purchasing from a grocery store, remove the clear, waxy coating before cooking.

4. CAULIFLOWER

Tastes kind of sweet and nutty. Delicious roasted, steamed, mashed, pureed, and raw with dip. The list is actually quite long for the ideas of this particular vegetable. Full of phytonutrients and vitamin C.

5. DATES

Sweet and delicious. Can be used in recipes cooked, stuffed (with goat cheese for appetizers), braised, and chopped. They can be used in breakfasts, entrees, and desserts. Offering fiber and potassium.

Enjoy all that fall has to offer and welcome this new season with a healthy perspective.

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What works for one person may not for another, so the information in these articles should not take the place of an expert opinion. Before making significant lifestyle or diet changes, please consult your primary care physician or nutritionist. Your doctor will know your own health best.