Fall Veggies That Boost Your Mood, Muscles & Metabolism

Fall Veggies to Boost Your Mood, Hormones, and Fat Loss!

Fall brings some incredible seasonal veggies that aren’t just tasty - they also pack a powerful punch for your mood, metabolism, and muscle health. Adding these to your diet can help keep you balanced and energized as the days get shorter. 

Pumpkin muffins

Here are three must-have veggies to enjoy this season:

🎃 Pumpkins: For a Boost in Mood and Energy

Pumpkins aren’t just for carving! Packed with Vitamin A, they help support both your immune system and your mood - just in time for the cooler months. Pumpkins are also high in fiber and low in calories, which promotes fullness without spiking blood sugar. The Vitamin A in pumpkins supports thyroid health, which is essential for maintaining energy and a healthy metabolism, both key to feeling your best. Try roasted pumpkin cubes as a cozy side or add pureed pumpkin to smoothies for a creamy, nutrient-packed treat.

🍠 Sweet Potatoes: Nutrient-Dense and Great for Fat Loss

Sweet potatoes are another fall staple that’s rich in fiber and Vitamin C, helping to manage cravings and steady blood sugar while boosting your immunity. With natural carbs and antioxidants, they provide sustained energy and can even assist in fat metabolism, as Vitamin C helps produce carnitine, a compound that aids in fat burning. Enjoy them baked, mashed, or in a warming fall soup for a satisfying, energy-supporting dish.

🥗 Leafy Greens: Relax and Recharge

Fall greens like spinach and kale are ideal for relaxation and muscle health. Rich in magnesium and calcium, they support muscle relaxation, improve sleep quality, and help manage cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which is vital for keeping mood and energy stable. These greens also support muscle function and bone health, crucial for staying active and strong. Add them to soups, stews, or sauté with garlic for a quick, nutrient-rich side.

Take advantage of fall’s bounty to fuel your body and lift your spirits 🍂

Want More Ideas?

From roasting to blending, fall veggies are versatile and nutrient-dense. If you're looking for simple, delicious recipes to include these seasonal superfoods in your meals, check out my Free Fall Dinners Guide, sign up for my weekly newsletter and follow me on Instagram!

Spiced Apple Protein Baked Oats

Fall mornings call for something warm and nutritious! My Spiced Apple Protein Baked Oats are perfect for fueling your day while keeping you cozy. Quick, easy, and packed with protein!

Here’s the recipe:

1️⃣ Mix 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 diced apple, 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp baking soda, pinch of salt and 1/3 cup almond milk in a baking dish.
2️⃣ Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden and set.
3️⃣ Top with maple syrup, nuts, or seeds if you like!

✨ For an extra protein boost, stir in one egg before baking!

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Anniversary Road Trip to Bar Harbor

Every year, my husband and I celebrate our anniversary with a new adventure, and this year we decided to road trip up to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. We’ve lived in Maine for two years but hadn’t ventured to the northern part of the state. So, we packed up and hit the road to Down East, taking the scenic Route 1, also known as the Atlantic Highway, which stretches all the way down to Key West -> next adventure??? Haha.

We love turning the journey into part of the adventure and driving on a Thursday made travel easy with fewer people on the road. Our first stop was Old Orchard Beach to see the Pier, but it was closed for the season. Lucky for us, we found a great breakfast spot at Lazy Day’s Restaurant. 

Next, we stopped in Brunswick to stretch our legs on the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge. 

In Woolwich, we enjoyed an afternoon drink at the bar at Taste of Maine and got a fun picture with Larry the Lobster - a 12-foot inflatable lobster that sits atop the restaurant.

In Rockland, we walked the nearly one-mile Breakwater to the lighthouse, enjoying the ocean views along the way.

Friday: Acadia National Park Adventures

We woke up early on Friday and caught a beautiful sunrise right from our hotel balcony—a peaceful way to start the day before heading out to Acadia National Park. 

We spent the day hiking, starting with the Ocean Trail, and even though it was a foggy day, we still had amazing views of Sands Beach, Thunder Hole and Otter Point. 

Although the summit of Cadillac Mountain was so foggy we couldn’t really see the water, the hike was still refreshing and worth it. We even enjoyed a donut snack on the top.

We returned Saturday morning to see the foliage around Jordan Pond. It was in full fall bloom, adding to the beauty of the morning.

Exploring Bar Harbor: Seafood, Shopping & More

Friday after hiking, we had an incredible lunch at Galyn’s downtown (their crab cakes and seafood linguini are a must-try). 

We devoured the charcuterie board at Paddy's Irish Pub to get our dinner started. 

I had my very first lobster roll, paired with some delicious clam chowder to share at West Street Café - a fun and cozy spot with a great atmosphere.

Saturday morning, before heading home, we enjoyed breakfast at the iconic Great Maine Breakfast, where the gluten-free blueberry pancakes were out of this world! 

Afterward, we explored the town a bit more, shopping at A Little Mad, a quirky shop with unique gifts, and walking along the Shore Path. 

We also made it out to Bar Island, walking the Sandbar—a land bridge that only appears during low tide.

The Journey Home: Wrapping Up the Adventure

On the way back Saturday, we made a few more stops. We walked the Harbor Walk and Footbridge in Belfast, taking in the beautiful coastal views, and then stopped in Camden for some final shopping and a delicious lunch at Sea Dog Brewing Company.

The Dogs:

In case you were wondering, we leave the dogs at home with a dog walker. She checks in on them 4 times a day and they absolutely love her. We know because she send us pics from her visits. 

Another Adventure for the Books

We love traveling to new places and trying new things, and this trip to Bar Harbor ranks up there with some of our favorite adventures, like Maui and Mt. Washington. The blend of coastal beauty, outdoor activities, and amazing food made it a perfect anniversary celebration.

If you’re ever in Maine or planning a trip to Bar Harbor, definitely consider taking Route 1 for some great scenic stops along the way. 

What’s your favorite place to explore for a special occasion? Let me know in the comments!

Quick Tips to Help You Feel Better and Strengthen Your Immune System!

Today, I want to share some quick and easy tips on how to boost your immune system, especially when you’re feeling a bit run down. Your immune system plays a huge role in keeping you healthy and full of energy, and making a few simple changes can really make a difference.

Tip 1: Eat a Rainbow of Fruits & Veggies
Fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins that support your immune system. Try to eat a variety of colors—berries, carrots, spinach, and more—to give your body the nutrients it needs.

Tip 2: Move Your Body Every Day
Exercise is fantastic for your immune health! Even just 30 minutes a day, whether it's a walk or a little dance session, helps keep your immune system strong.

Tip 3: Get Plenty of Sleep
Don’t skimp on sleep! Aim for 7-9 hours each night so your body can recharge and stay healthy.

These small changes can make a big difference in how you feel. 

Have you tried any of these tips? Let me know in the comments what works best for you!

PS - if you need a quick reset, try this 7 Day Detox to feel better!

The Celebrate Pink 5K: A Morning of Community, Purpose, and Progress

Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of participating in the Celebrate Pink 5K with the amazing women of the Portsmouth Women’s City Club. Our team, PWCC Pink Ladies, showed up in full force as the 5th largest team, raising over $700 for breast cancer awareness and research. It was such a proud moment, not only for what we raised but for the support and camaraderie we shared.

Being 1.5 years since my own diagnosis, this event felt especially meaningful. It was a reminder that every step we take - literally and figuratively - counts. Whether you're walking, running, or simply showing up, it all makes a difference. This journey has taught me the importance of doing things that make you feel good, not just for your own well-being, but also for the benefit of others. Events like this are a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can create real change while taking care of ourselves.

I’d love to share more about my journey and how this event has helped me keep moving forward. Feel free to ask me anything - I’m an open book! Let's keep the conversation going because every step matters. 💖