Monday Campaigns: Go Meatless for National Apple Month

October 14, 2024 / Get Well

It’s National Apple Month! This delicious fruit deserves a whole month of appreciation, and October is the perfect time to celebrate its versatility and health benefits. Did you know National Apple Month has been around since 1973?

Go Meatless on Mondays with Apples
Looking for a delicious and healthy way to participate in Meatless Mondays this October? Look no further than apples! NOVA’s Office of Wellness and Wellbeing (OEWW) is excited to share information, tips and recipes that showcase the incredible apple. 

Dive Deeper into the World of Apples:
Want to learn more about this fascinating fruit? Watch this documentary to discover the apple’s journey from a tiny seed to a beloved fruit enjoyed worldwide. Explore its history, science and culture. Learn about the many unique varieties of apples, each with its own flavor, texture and culinary uses.

The Power of Apples:
Apples are a nutritional powerhouse! Here’s why they’re great for your health:

  • Rich in Fiber: Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • Packed with Phytochemicals: Quercetin and catechin offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Good Source of Vitamin C: Supports your immune system.

Check out “Apples – The Nutrition Source” (harvard.edu) to learn more about their benefits:

One medium apple provides:

  • 95 calories
  • 0 grams fat
  • 1 gram protein
  • 25 grams carbohydrates (19 grams naturally occurring sugar)
  • 3 grams fiber

Maximize Your Apple Benefits:

  • Eat them whole! The skin holds most of the fiber and flavonoids.
  • Opt for fresh over dried: Dehydrated apples often lose Vitamin C and may have added sugar.
  • Limit the juice: It lacks fiber and essential nutrients.

Pick Your Own Apples Locally!
Looking for a fun fall activity? Head to a nearby orchard! Apple picking isn’t just about the fruit – it’s a fantastic way to boost your overall well-being. Spending time outdoors with family and friends while picking apples can improve your mental health, reduce stress and increase physical activity. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, create lasting memories and engage in light exercise. Plus, the satisfaction of harvesting your own food can encourage healthier eating habits!

Resources for apple picking near you:

Apple-solutely Delicious Recipes
This October, embrace the apple in all its glory! Enjoy delicious recipes, discover its fascinating history, and support your health with this versatile fruit. Try these mouthwatering recipes:

This Week’s Tip: Kick off your Meatless Monday apple celebration by starting your day with a nutritious apple-based breakfast. Try topping your oatmeal with diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, or blend an apple into your morning smoothie for a boost of fiber and flavor. For lunch, pack a crisp apple to enjoy as a refreshing side dish or snack. Challenge yourself to incorporate apples into your dinner menu too–perhaps by trying out one of the delicious meatless apple recipes we’ve shared above!

Submitted by:
Dahlia Henry-Tett, Chief Wellness Officer (CWO), employeewellbeing@nvcc.edu