Jake Berman

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September in Season Produce: Apples!

Jenni Berman |

Happy September! We are almost nearing the end of summer which means the fun holiday season is soon approaching. You probably notice how our food preferences and ingredients shift as the seasons change. This happens partly because of holidays and weather, but also because foods are harvested at different times of the year.  I love purchasing produce in accordance with what is “in-season” because this is when you will find the tastiest versions of fruits and vegetables. You can usually find the best deals on in-season produce as well which is always a win! September is usually the beginning of apple-picking season across the United States. This means all over we can typically find apples like Gala, Mcintosh, Granny Smith, and Fuji at their peak. If you live in an apple harvesting state, this is the best time to get out and choose the perfect apples yourself! Let’s talk about some of the health benefits of apples.

  1. Apples are rich in nutrients such as Vitamin C, Potassium, and Vitamin K. Vitamin C is crucial for our immune system which is important as we move into the fall season. Potassium helps the body maintain water balance, while Vitamin K helps with supporting bone health and wound healing.
  2. Apples are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber. This combination helps with improving digestion, keeping bowel movements regular as well as supporting healthy cholesterol levels. Fiber also helps the body eliminate circulating cholesterol that could otherwise become risk factors for stroke. Consuming foods that contain fiber can also help keep you full for longer periods of time.
  3. Pectin is a specific type of fiber that apples contain that acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria in our gut. Feeding the good bacteria helps to keep our gut microbiome healthy.
  4. Apples contain a large concentration of flavonoids as well, such as quercetin. Quercetin is an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Consuming antioxidant rich foods can help reduce overall inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

There are so many yummy ways to enjoy apples. I always recommend pairing any kind of fruit with a protein and/or healthy fat to help keep you satiated and to also avoid a possible spike in blood sugar.

Some examples include: apple slices and nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew), apple and a cheese stick, chopped apples and greek (or a dairy-free) yogurt with cinnamon sprinkled on top! One of my favorite ways to enjoy apples is to dice them, warm/soften them in a skillet with cinnamon and add to my yogurt or protein-oatmeal!

Jenni Berman

Jenni Berman

Jenni, owner of Berman Health and Wellness, works alongside Berman Physical Therapy to help individuals get back in shape, improve their gut health, and to stay feeling young so they can stay in the game! After graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, she went on to obtain a Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies. She has a passion for helping individuals to feel better than they thought imaginable through natural approaches, nutrition, and whole body treatment. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist. When she is not working with patients or with clients, you can find Jenni on the boat, in the sun, enjoying time with her husband, Jake,her daughter Stella June, spending time in Jacksonville with her family, or playing with her [CUTE!] pups!!
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