As we say goodbye to summer and welcome the cozy embrace of fall, our routines naturally change with the season. Not only are we adjusting to new schedules and cooler weather, but our bodies and skin are also reacting to the changes. The end of summer often brings with it dry skin and perhaps a few extra pounds due to the indulgences of summer travels and treats. But don’t stress! This fall is the perfect time to regroup, re-energize, and infuse our diets with powerful beauty foods.

While all fresh fruits and veggies boast a plethora of benefits for shiny hair, clear skin, and strong nails, I want to highlight five that might surprise you. Not only are these foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals, but they also possess unique properties to help reverse summer damage and enhance your natural beauty.

1. Red Peppers: Red and orange foods owe their vibrant hue to beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Red peppers, however, take the beauty crown. These beauties pack a punch with vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamins A and C combat cell damage, reducing inflammation, and premature aging, while Vitamin K protects our cells from damage.

2. Spinach: Leafy greens are the kings of the beauty realm, thanks in large part to their chlorophyll content. Spinach, in particular, helps build clean blood cells, which radiate through healthy, glowing skin.

3. Turmeric: This golden Indian spice is not just for curries. Turmeric is a treasure trove of antioxidants, protecting our cells from free radical damage, clearing metabolic waste, and enhancing liver function.

4. Pumpkin Seeds: Save those pumpkin seeds from your Halloween carvings and turn them into your everyday “wow” snacks! These tiny wonders are packed with zinc, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B, C, and E. They're also a great source of amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining healthy cell structure. Check out my recipe below for amazing snacks you’ll have on hand this season! 👇

5. Parsley: Often ignored as just a garnish, parsley is a potent beauty herb. Rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidant flavonoids, parsley protects our cells, purifies the blood, kills bacteria, aids digestion, and cleanses toxins from the liver.

Incorporating these beauty foods into your daily diet is simpler than you think. Add turmeric to your morning juice, sprinkle pumpkin seeds over your salad, or blend spinach into your smoothie. As you savor the flavors of fall, your body will be working to revitalize your skin, hair, and nails, enhancing your natural beauty from the inside out.

Have you seen my Grocery Store Guide to Healthy Eating? Healthy eating and grocery shopping don’t have to ruin your day. This program is loaded with all the information and templates you need to make it super simple – one you can use over and over again throughout the entire year to simplify your life and nourish your body with delicious healthy foods!

Remember, beauty isn't a destination, but a journey. Embrace the beauty foods of fall and step into a season of self-care, nourishment, and radiance. Fall in love with taking care of your body, because, in the end, true beauty comes from being the best version of ourselves. Happy Fall!

Quick & Easy Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Here's a simple recipe to dry and roast your pumpkin seeds, turning them into a delicious, nutritious snack:

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Seeds from one medium pumpkin

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

• Salt (to taste)

• Your choice of seasoning (suggestions below)

Procedure:

1. Scoop the seeds out of your pumpkin and separate them from the pulp. Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove any remaining pulp.

2. Spread the seeds out on a towel and let them dry overnight. This step is really important, as the drier your seeds, the crispier they will turn out after roasting.

3. Preheat your oven to 300°F (or around 150°C).

4. Toss the dried pumpkin seeds in a bowl with olive oil and salt. Make sure all the seeds are coated.

5. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Stir the seeds every 10 minutes for even roasting.

7. Let them cool before snack time!

Seasoning Suggestions:

Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Here are a few ideas:

• Sweet: Toss the seeds in cinnamon and a bit of sugar or honey for a sweet treat.

• Spicy: If you're a fan of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder.

• Savory: Sprinkle some garlic powder or onion powder for a savory snack.

• Italian twist: Add some dried oregano, parsley, and a little parmesan.

Remember, the key to a good, crunchy roast is to ensure the seeds are well-dried before roasting. So, when it’s time to carve those pumpkins, don't toss the seeds. Roast them instead for a healthy, delicious snack. Enjoy your pumpkin carving and happy snacking! Click here to learn more.