Super foods that help fight fall fatigue

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Wednesday, November 4, 2015
VIDEO: Super foods that help fight fatigue
One doctor says the secret to beating the fall slump is in the aisle of your supermarket - you just have to know how to shop for super foods.

The weather is changing, the clocks have changed, and with the new season comes the start of what health experts call sluggish season.

But one doctor says the secret to beating the fall slump is in the aisle of your supermarket - you just have to know how to shop for super foods.

Fighting fall fatigue means getting lots of colorful produce in your body.

Dr. Felicia Stoler, the author of "Living Skinny in Fat Genes", says when it comes to staying healthy and full of energy this fall, just look for the brightest shades in the produce section.

For example, red Swiss chard.

"See the beautiful the pigments in here? The pigments help to work as an antioxidant but also anti cancer property," said Dr. Stoler.

Vibrant red, orange and yellow peppers are all rich in antioxidants that combat oxidation, which drains energy levels and accelerates aging.

And when it comes to leafy greens, she says kale is king

"Kale was always the garnish at the deli counter that no one wanted and now it's the sexy vegetable containing vitamins, minerals and fiber," said Dr. Stoler.

And for a quick kale boost, you can take it on the go in powder form and also sneak it into just about anything - including foods for the little ones.

"Making mac and cheese for kids - toss that in - throw it on a potato and add it to yogurt as part of a dip," said Dr. Stoler.

Dr. Stoler says energy boosters include anything that packs a lot of fiber - like steel cut oats and chia seeds.

"It's a carb that's a grain that has a lot of fiber, protein and omega 3 fatty acids," she said.

She also adds that anti-inflammatory foods like berries can combat mental exhaustion and burnout.

And take note - she says so can chocolate.

"Dark chocolate is the thing to have so look for a higher cocoa content," said Dr. Stoler.

Just make sure it's a small piece of chocolate and dark chocolate, not milk.

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