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Fall Superfoods for Energy and Immunity

As the weather cools and the leaves start to turn, fall brings a bounty of vibrant, nutrient-rich foods that can do wonders for your body and your mood. Three of my personal favorites—apples, kale, and pomegranates—not only taste amazing this time of year but also offer powerful health benefits that support your immune system, digestion, and energy. Here’s why these seasonal stars deserve a spot on your plate—and a few simple ways to enjoy them.

Few things capture fall like the satisfying crunch of a fresh apple. Beyond their natural sweetness, apples are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants—especially in the skin. The soluble fiber (pectin) supports healthy digestion and balanced blood sugar, while the polyphenols help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy apples is as a mid-afternoon snack with almond butter. The healthy fats and protein from the almond butter slow the release of fructose into your bloodstream, keeping your energy stable and your appetite satisfied. For an extra treat, I’ll sprinkle a little cinnamon on top—an easy way to boost blood sugar balance and add a cozy fall flavor.

Kale is truly one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. It’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that support eye and skin health. Its combination of fiber and phytonutrients also makes it a natural detoxifier, helping your liver process and eliminate toxins more efficiently.

While kale can be polarizing, I’ve found one foolproof way to make it crave-worthy: air-fried kale chips. I take organic shredded kale, lightly coat it with olive oil, sprinkle on sea salt (and maybe garlic or onion powder), and air fry until crisp. The result is a perfectly crunchy, savory addition to any meal that satisfies those salty cravings—without the processed ingredients found in chips. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in more greens which we could all use more of.

Pomegranates are one of fall’s most beautiful (and beneficial) fruits. Those jewel-toned seeds, or arils, are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and powerful antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect your cells from oxidative stress. Pomegranates support heart health, lower blood pressure, and even enhance exercise recovery.

My favorite way to enjoy pomegranate seeds is at breakfast, sprinkled over a bowl of full-fat yogurt and grain-free granola. The combination of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and juicy pomegranate creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors—plus a nutritional trifecta of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants to start the day strong.

Fall is a season of grounding and nourishment, and these three foods deliver both in abundance. By keeping your meals colorful, you can nourish your body with what nature intended this season: balance, warmth, and vitality.

Camu Camu the Superfood

Clarissa A. Kussin, ND, FMCHC, ERYT-500

Lets dive into the powerful benefits of a superfood called Camu Camu. Known for its exceptional nutritional profile, Camu Camu offers a wide range of health benefits. Additionally, we’ve included a delightful smoothie recipe to help you incorporate this fantastic fruit into your daily routine.

Understanding Camu Camu
Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a small berry native to the Amazon rainforest in Peru and Brazil. It has gained popularity worldwide due to its extraordinarily high vitamin C content, containing up to 60 times more vitamin C per serving than an orange. However, Camu Camu offers more than just vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that support overall well-being.

The Health Benefits of Camu Camu

Immune Support: Camu Camu’s exceptional vitamin C content plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and strengthen immune defenses.

Antioxidant Powerhouse: In addition to vitamin C, Camu Camu contains a range of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and ellagic acid. These compounds combat free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health.

Collagen Formation: Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, which supports healthy skin, joints, and connective tissues. Regular consumption of Camu Camu can contribute to the maintenance of youthful skin and overall joint health.

Mood Enhancement: Some studies suggest that Camu Camu may have mood-enhancing properties due to its high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Including Camu Camu in your diet may help support mental well-being.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Camu Camu contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds, including anthocyanins and catechins. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, supporting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Here’s a refreshing smoothie recipe that combines the goodness of Camu Camu with other nutritious ingredients:
Camu Berry Blast Smoothie: 2 servingsIngredients:1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)1 small frozen banana1 /2 teaspoon Camu Camu powder1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)1 tablespoon chia seeds1 tablespoon honey, date paste or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)A few ice cubes IF your berries are not frozen

Instructions: Place all the ingredients in a blender. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding honey or maple syrup. Pour into a glass and enjoy this antioxidant-rich, vitamin C-packed smoothie.
Note: You can customize the smoothie by adding spinach, kale, or your favorite protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.

Where to Find Camu CamuCamu Camu is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and freeze-dried berries. Look for organic and sustainably sourced Camu Camu products from reputable health food stores, online retailers, or local farmers’ markets.
Consider adding Camu Camu to your daily wellness routine by incorporating it into smoothies, juices, yogurt bowls, or even homemade energy bars. Experiment with different recipes to explore the unique tangy flavor and reap the numerous health benefits.

Your Partner In Health,
Clarissa A. Kussin, ND, FMCHC, ERYT-500

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