As the leaves begin to change and the weather gets cooler, fall fruits start to appear in grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
While many people associate fall with treats like pumpkin pie and apple cider, there are plenty of fall fruits that can benefit both your gut and heart health. Here are ten fall fruits you should add to your shopping list:.
1. Apples
Apples are one of the quintessential fall fruits, and for good reason. They’re a good source of fiber, which can help keep your gut microbiota healthy.
Apples also contain flavonoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. One flavonoid in particular, quercetin, has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
2. Pears
Pears are another fall fruit that can benefit your gut and heart. Like apples, pears are a good source of fiber. They also contain potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke.
Pears are also a good source of flavonoids, including quercetin.
3. Cranberries
Cranberries are a tart fall fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sauces to baked goods. They contain a compound called proanthocyanidin, which can help prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of your urinary tract.
Cranberries are also a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and protect your heart health.
4. Persimmons
Persimmons are a lesser-known fall fruit that’s worth seeking out. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin A, which can help improve eye health.
Persimmons also contain compounds called catechins, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
5. Figs
Figs are a sweet and tasty fall fruit that can benefit both your gut and heart health. They’re a good source of fiber and potassium, and they contain compounds called psoralens, which have been shown to have antioxidant effects.
Figs also contain flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, which can help protect your heart.
6. Grapes
Grapes are a fall fruit that can be eaten fresh or used to make wine. They’re a good source of gut-friendly fiber and vitamin C.
Grapes also contain compounds called resveratrol, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and may help protect your heart health.
7. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are a fall fruit that are rich in antioxidants, including ellagic acid and polyphenols. These antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals in your body and protect your heart health.
Pomegranates are also a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
8. Quince
Quince is a fall fruit that’s high in fiber and vitamin C. It’s also a good source of compounds called phenolic acids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quince can be eaten raw or cooked, and it’s often used to make jellies and jams.
9. Kiwi
Kiwi is a fall fruit that’s high in gut-friendly fiber and vitamin C. It’s also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and protect your heart health.
Kiwi also contains compounds called catechins, which have been shown to have antioxidant effects.
10. Pumpkins
Last but not least, pumpkins are a fall fruit that can benefit your gut and heart health. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin A, which can help improve eye health.
Pumpkins also contain compounds called carotenoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant effects and may help protect your heart health.