Fall is upon us, and I would be remiss if I did not talk about 6 types of healthy eating as holistic, preventive medicine for your health.
PERSIMMON: A Tasty Treat to Safeguard YOUR Heart’s Holistic Health
Research shows that polyphenols, which are beneficial chemicals found in persimmons in abundance, help decrease levels of the dangerous LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Additionally, persimmons are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Cultivated in China for centuries, the fruit made its way to California in the mid-1800s. They are in season from October through February and make a delightful addition to baked goods as well as a fresh fruit plate.
KABOCHA SQUASH: A Night Vision Enhancer
As we get older, seeing in low light gets tougher. In addition, shorter days in the fall can mean more driving in the dark. But kabocha squash can help: It is rich in carotenoids, which can improve visual clarity, as well as night, peripheral, and distance vision. Hailing from Japan, Kabocha is also packed with other nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, fiber, proteins, and vitamin B6. Enjoy it baked or roasted in soups, salads, stews, and other colorful dishes.
PEAR: Your Belly-Slimming Friends
Snacking on pears can satisfy your hunger and help you shed pounds. In some studies, women who made this juicy fruit part of their diet consumed fewer calories throughout the day and lost 38% more weight than pear avoiders. This is because pears are packed with soluble fiber called pectin, which promotes healthy bowel function and can increase the feeling of fullness after you eat it. Pears are also packed with calcium, magnesium, folate, and vitamin K. Available from August through January, these wonderful tart treats can be baked, roasted, grilled, or enjoyed on a fresh fruit plate.
RADICCIO: Your Daily Stress Antidote
When times get tense, eating radicchio can keep you calm and energized. According to a study in the journal of Pharmacological Biochemistry & Behavior, this veggie’s chicoric acid helps regulate levels of cortisol and noradrenaline, which helps prevent stress-induced blue moods, brain fog, and fatigue.
ONION: A Blood Sugar Balancer for YOU
Research shows that diabetics who made onions a staple of their diet achieved reductions in blood sugar and insulin levels that were similar to those of subjects who were taking prescription medications. Experts credit the combination of the sulfur-containing compounds and flavonoids—both found in onions in abundance. For a simple way to enjoy the sugar-balancing perks, sauté sliced onions in olive oil on low heat for 15 minutes, add spices to taste, and use as a topping for chicken breast, fish, or even just toast.
BOK CHOY: An Edible (& Holistic) Beautifier
This awesome vegetable makes skin glow and wards off wrinkles thanks to its rich stores of antioxidants: lutein and zeaxanthin. Researchers discovered that consumption of these carotenoids guards against the UV-induced free radical damage that prematurely ages the skin. A diet rich in bok choy will also help improve skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness. To reap the holistic rewards of this leafy green, add chopped bok choy to chicken soup or your favorite stew, or sauté the whole leaves with olive oil and spices of your choice.
