Magazine_Autumn2021_RND2_10.14.21.indd

The leaves are falling, and the weather has turned crisp, which means my favorite time of the year is here – Autumn! It’s a time when we can reflect on how we’ve grown throughout the year and enjoy the bounty of our hard-earned efforts. In my house, apples, pumpkins and chai reign as the supreme fall flavors! I include them in my smoothies, hot drinks, pancakes, muffins, and even pies – surprise! I do make pies (and delicious ones to boot). You name it, I find ways to incorporate these and many more flavors of the season into my foods. Aside from being down-right tasty, they’re packed with powerful nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that can help keep you healthy. I know what you’re thinking – these autumnal flavors are often associated with high sugar, high calorie decadent treats. And you know what? You would be right. Believe it or not, these treats can still benefit your diet. Though often demonized for their added sugar, holiday treats do have their place on your table and as part of a healthy diet. My goal is to help you relax and enjoy the bounty of the season, as well as learn how to use your favorite ingredients to boost flavor and nutritional value. In this issue, we’ll be talking about sugar — how to make better choices in general and how to use sugar responsibly (like for post- workout recovery). So go ahead –have that slice of pumpkin pie, guilt-free! Enjoy and Eat Well! Dan Young Dan Young is the founder and president of Simple Again, representing Performance Food Centers and the swiig brand of nutritional products. Certified in personal training and sports nutrition, Dan is a lifelong athlete, having competed in body building and endurance events. Dan completed his first of many Ironman competitions in 2018. “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald Letter from the Founder 2 Nutrition Quarterly · 2021 – Volume 4