I think autumn has some of my favourite foods. People think that when the weather starts to turn colder, they will end up eating more unhealthy foods. This doesn’t have to be so. Foods that are in season in autumn can be hearty and healthy and keep you fuller for longer. Here are some of my favourite foods for autumn.

 

 

-          Pumpkins and Squash: Pumpkins are not just to be carved for Halloween, but they are great roasted or made into soup. The same goes for butternut squash, it is a perfect ingredient for soup. Roasted pumpkin or squash with some goats cheese makes a great salad topping too. They are both low in calories, very filling and full of vitamins. If you fancy a bit more of a treat, make your own pumpkin puree and make a pumpkin pie. Pumpkin seeds are good for you too and make a perfect snack.

-          Apples and Pears: Both of these fruits are at their best at the moment and they are so versatile.  Use them in curries, roast them alongside pork, use them in desserts, or use them to season a festive drink. They are also great for weight loss as they maintain your blood-sugar level and they are low in calories.  They also regulate your digestive system.

-          Dates: These are a great alternative to sweets and chocolate. Instead of having a big bowl of chocolates on the table over the festive season, have a bowl of dates instead, but snack on them in moderation as they have a higher concentration of calories than non dried fruit. They are full of fibre and can boost your energy.

-          Cabbage: Everyone has heard of the cabbage soup diet, but you don’t need to resort to that! Cabbage is indeed a great ingredient for soup, but it makes a healthy and very low calorie side dish too.

-          Sweet Potatoes: A great alternative to regular potatoes as they leave you fuller for longer. They are full of vitamins and nutrients and have so many uses. Make them into chips, roast, mash or bake.

-          Cinnamon: You can’t pass through the festive season without having something that has cinnamon in. Whether it is a warm mulled drink, cookies or hot chocolate. The best thing about it? Apart from the taste? It is a natural appetite suppressant and lowers your blood sugar.

-          Vanilla: It’s a great natural sweetener and is nice when added to coffee. It is also said that the smell of vanilla can reduce the cravings of sweet things.

-          Ginger: I use ginger for so many things. In curries, Japanese and Chinese dishes, grated into tea or smoothies and cooked with onions and garlic for the base of a soup. Ginger boosts your immune system, which is perfect for the colder months.

-          Brussel Sprouts: These little balls are filled with nutrition and are very low in calories. They get a bad rep, but they are a great choice of vegetable. Most people only eat them on Christmas day, but they should be a staple part of your diet throughout the year. Try these roasted brussel sprouts.

-          Coriander: Has to be my favourite herb. Perfect in all Mexican dishes or sprinkled over a salad. It reduces water retention, as it is a natural diuretic and it helps with weight loss, as it aids the body in getting rid of waste.