Fall into a Healthy Routine

    Fall into a Healthy Routine

    By Jacqueline Gomes, RD, MBA

    Fall is a fantastic time to embrace positive changes that set you up to develop healthy routines that will make you feel amazing.

    Here are some cheerful tips to help you develop a vibrant and balanced routine for this wonderful season:

    Embrace the Autumn Air: Fall brings crisp, invigorating air that’s perfect for outdoor activities. Take a stroll, go for a hike, or even enjoy a leisurely bike ride. It’s a refreshing way to get your body moving!

    Nourish with Seasonal Goodies: Fall is bursting with delicious, nutritious foods. Think of colorful fruits and veggies like pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and apples. Incorporate these into your meals and snacks for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

    Hydrate and Stay Warm: As the weather cools down, remember to stay well-hydrated. Warm herbal teas, soups, and stews can be both comforting and nutritious.

    Celebrate Autumn Activities: Engage in fall-themed activities that you enjoy! Whether it’s apple picking, leaf-gazing, or cozying up with a good book, these moments contribute to a happy and balanced routine.

    Stay Socially Connected: While the days may be getting shorter, your social connections shouldn’t! Plan gatherings with friends or family to enjoy the season together.

    Flex Your Creative Muscles: Fall is a wonderful time to explore creative outlets. Try painting, crafting, or even writing in a gratitude journal to nurture your creative side.

    Remember, developing a healthy routine in the fall is about enjoying seasonal foods and cherishing the world around you. So, embrace this season of change and let it inspire you to be your best self!

    Healthy Apple-Pumpkin Muffins

    apple pumpkin muffins

    Prep: 15 minutes

    Bake: 10-15 minutes

    Makes: 12 muffins

    Ingredients

    • 1-3/4 cups whole wheat flour
    • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup grated honey crisp apple*
    • 1 cup honey crisp apple diced into 1/4” cubes
    • 1/3 cup avocado oil or olive oil
    • 1/2 cup honey
    • 2 eggs
    • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
    • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Directions:

    1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or line with muffin cups.
    2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Add the grated apple and chopped apple. Stir well.
    3. In a medium bowl, add the oil and honey, beat together with a whisk. Add the eggs and beat well, then add the yogurt, pumpkin puree and vanilla – mix well.
    4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix well with a spoon, just until combined, don’t over mix. Note: The batter will be thick.
    5. Pour the batter evenly into the 12 muffin cups. Bake muffins for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into a muffin comes out clean.
    6. Place the muffin tin on a cooling rack to cool.

    Tip: Leftover muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 4 days then freeze any leftover muffins.