25 Fall Weight Loss Foods
If you’re like me, feeling the slightest change in the air prompts you to pull out all of your big, comfy sweaters. Once this happens, I also begin to crave my favorite autumn flavors. Unfortunately, most of those fall treats are loaded with excess sugar and calories. At SkinnyMs, we’ve realized that just because we’re rocking comfortable, over-sized sweaters doesn’t mean that we should let our waistline go! For this reason, we’ve assembled a list of 25 fall weight loss foods that will help you enjoy the flavors of autumn in a healthy way.
This isn’t just a list of snacks. Aside from naming our favorite fall foods, we’ve also included a delicious, healthy recipe that uses each ingredient. This will allow you to enjoy a little autumn at every meal!
25 Fall Weight Loss Foods
1. Pumpkin
For obvious reasons, the first food on our list of fall weight loss foods is pumpkin. This is one of the most versatile fall foods! Enjoy pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin in your salad, and even pumpkin-spiced chili.
2. Acorn Squash
The second I hear “acorn squash,” visions of pumpkin patches and hay bales dance in my head. This veggie is another one that can be used in any meal, even breakfast.
3. Spaghetti Squash
For some reason, cold weather makes our bellies beg for warm, hearty meals. The recipe below puts a healthy, low-carb spin on one of our favorite comfort meals!
4. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes aren’t just for side dishes anymore. This superfood is making headlines, not only for its flavor but also because of the nutrients it has to offer! This one definitely qualifies for our list of fall weight loss foods.
5. Mushrooms
Mushrooms may not automatically make you think “fall,” but that’s about to change. This healthy ingredient is often used in the most decadent dishes. The recipe below will have you feeling warm, cozy, and satisfied!
6. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have grown in popularity over the last few years, and for a good reason! They are extremely high in nutrients and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any fall meal.
7. Turnips
If you need more Omega-3 fatty acids or fiber in your diet, try adding turnips to you list of fall weight loss foods. The recipe below is one of our favorites!
8. Kale
Ah yes, kale. Who doesn’t love this leafy green? Aside from the fact that it’s one of the healthiest vegetables on the planet, it’s also easy to throw into any stew or casserole. The kids won’t even realize they’re eating it and you’ll know they’re getting the important vitamins and minerals that they need!
9. Chard
You may not be familiar with it (yet), but chard is another nutrient-dense leafy green. While it may not be as popular as kale, it’s a nutritional power house that deserves another look.
10. Cauliflower
Cauliflower isn’t just for boring veggie trays anymore! This vegetable has become quite versatile, which is why it’s one of our favorite fall weight loss foods. You can use it in casseroles, skillets, and even as a pizza crust.
11. Carrots
We’re all familiar with this bright orange veggie. You can eat them as is, or throw them into a pan and cook them up with some chicken (as seen below.)
12. Corn
Nothing says harvest quite like corn. This starchy food can be eaten on the cob as a side dish or baked into your favorite healthy breads and muffins!
13. Figs
I’ve fallen in love with figs! I enjoy them most when they’re chopped up in a salad, but I’ll take them any way I can have them. They have such a wonderfully unique taste and they’re loaded with soluble fiber.
14. Cranberries
Cranberries and turkey go together like peanut butter and jelly. I’m not sure there’s a fruit out there that says fall weight loss foods more than these tasty little berries! While there are hundreds of ways to enjoy them, the turkey, pesto, and cranberry melt below is seriously life changing. See for yourself!
15. Pomegranates
This fruit can add incredible flavor to any dish without adding a ton of excess calories! It has also been found to contain dozens of disease-fighting properties!
16. Apples
You were probably wondering when this fall favorite was going to pop up on the list of fall weight loss foods. Like we could ever forget apples! An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but it also keeps your taste buds very happy. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert; throw an apple in it!
17. Pears
Pears make a great autumn snack on their own, but they’re even better when paired with sharp-flavored cheese. Yum, yum, YUM!
18. Pumpkin Seeds
Have fun carving your pumpkin, but don’t throw the guts away. Save those seeds and use them in the delicious soup below!
19. Pecans
When it comes to pecans, your first thought might be to make a pecan pie (tempting, I know). Remember that we want to keep things healthy! Instead of making a calorie-dense pie, enjoy pecans in a tasty, low-calorie salad instead.
20. Caramel
A little caramel will go a long way. This sweet treat will satisfy your sweet tooth without pushing your waistline over the edge.
21. Chai
Most of us think of a beverage when we hear the word “chai,” but this is one of those fall weight loss foods that is quite versatile. Did you know that you can add it to soup? The recipe below incorporates a few of our favorite autumn flavors.
22. Sage
This leaf doesn’t just smell good; it offers an incredible flavor as well! Like most of the other foods on the list of fall weight loss foods, it holds several different medical benefits!
23. Fall Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, & Turmeric)
These really need no explanation. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric all scream, “It’s getting cold outside!” The possibilities with these spices are endless, but check out a few of these autumn favorites:
- Instant Pot Cinnamon Apples
- Slow Cooker Banana French Toast Casserole (with nutmeg)
- Slow Cooker Carrot Turmeric Soup
24. Oysters
We know what you’re thinking: “Oysters are a fall food? Seriously?” It’s true! They’re at their freshest when autumn rolls around. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in these interesting, high-protein morsels!
25. Stone Crab
The last food on our list of fall weight loss foods probably seems to appear out of left field. Stone crab season also begins in October! This shellfish is extremely low in calories, loaded with protein (and flavor), and it’s so good for your skin, hair, and nails!
Which one of these 25 fall weight loss foods were you most surprised to see on our list? Did your favorite autumn flavor make the cut? Let us know in the comment section below!