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Functional Foods of Fall
Elizabeth
Miller, RD, LD
Fall is upon us and with it comes a great variety
of fruits and vegetables to choose from, each with its own
unique health benefits. For the majority of us, Thanksgiving
would not be complete without two: pumpkin and cranberries.
Pumpkin
The bright orange color of the pumpkin
is a giveaway that is loaded with the powerful antioxidant beta-carotene.
Beta-carotene performs many important functions in overall health.
Current research indicates that a diet rich in foods containing
beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types
of cancer, protects against heart disease, and may slow some
degenerative aspects of aging. It’s also a good source
of vitamin C (which is another antioxidant), vitamin K, calcium,
iron, and folate.
1 cup of mashed pumpkin contains 50 calories, 0 grams fat, and
3 grams of fiber.
Let’s not forget about the seeds!
Pumpkin seeds can help support your immune system, assist prostate
health, and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
They are also a very good source of the minerals magnesium, manganese,
and phosphorous, and a good source of iron, copper, protein,
and zinc.
1 oz hulled pumpkin seeds contain 150 calories, 13 grams of fat,
and 7 grams of protein.
Cranberries Cranberries
are packed with antioxidants and other natural compounds that promote wellness. Research
studies suggest cranberries have many health benefits. They prevent
disease-causing bacteria from adhering to the cell walls of the
urinary tract and help decrease heart disease and some forms of
cancer. Other studies show cranberries are beneficial in preventing
or treating gum disease, stomach ulcers, and are a natural defense
against atherosclerosis . Because of the fruit’s natural
tartness, many cranberry juices and sauces have added sweeteners.
Moderation is important when you choose one of these products because
added sweeteners equal added calories. 1 cup whole cranberries
contain 45 calories and 4 grams of fiber.
For the latest research, please visit:
The Cranberry Institute www.cranberryinstitute.org
Worlds Healthiest Foods www.whfoods.org
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