6 Fall Foods That Can Help You Lose Weight

By Brianna SteinhilberMedically Reviewed by Kelly Kennedy, RD

Last Updated: September 23, 2015

When you hear "fall foods," what comes to mind? Pumpkin pie? Gravy? Stews, pot roast, and turkey? Whatever you associate with fall fare, chances are that "healthy" doesn't top the list. But maybe it should! The right foods can help you shed pounds, and autumn's produce is no exception. Here are the best foods to eat right now: They'll help keep you slim while still allowing you to indulge in all of the delicious dishes the season has to offer.

Move over, butternut — there's another healthy squash in season. Spaghetti squash is a dieter's dream: With the shape and texture of pasta, but a fraction of the carbs and calories, it's a great way to satisfy pasta cravings without any guilt. If you're a Bolognese lover, this recipe for Spaghetti Squash With Chunky Tomato Sauce will hit the spot. Or try this Sweet Spaghetti Squash recipe for a bowl of savory, fall goodness for less than 100 calories!

The popular fall fruit is a good source of fiber and is low in calories, making for a yummy snack that keeps you full without adding too much to your daily calorie count. While apples make a smart, portable snack as is, they also work well in a variety of recipes. Bring apples to the dinner menu with a tangy twist on coleslaw, which is great as a side dish or as a topping on your favorite burger or sandwich. For a savory, fall-inspired carb, whip up some Apple Raisin Risotto — a more nutritious take on the classic dish.

Sweet and colorful, this starchy veggie makes a perfect substitute for your classic Idaho. While it isn't dramatically lower in calories, it's slightly lower in carbohydrates and — added bonus — higher in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A. Try these Smashed Sweet Potatoes for a healthy twist on classic mash, or go savory with Sweet Potato Casserole for a sweet take on dinner or a delicious breakfast option. For all the french fry lovers out there, be sure to bake up a batch of these Crispy Sweet Potato Fries!

If you're looking to cut back on calories without sacrificing flavor, sprouts are your new best friend. They're a good source of filling fiber, which may help you stave off the after-supper snack craving. Replace your standard side of rice for a helping of Brussels Sprouts With Chestnuts and Sage. The buttery dish is satisfying and delicious, but at just 68 calories per serving, will still save you calories. Or spice things up with this recipe for Brussels Sprouts With Bacon-Horseradish Cream. If the shape or texture turns your family off, give these Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Onions a try — they don't even have to know they're eating sprouts!

Low in calories and rich in some vitamins and other nutrients, it's no mystery why cauliflower is a go-to fall food when it comes to our health. The cruciferous veggie is extremely versatile: It's an outstanding side dish when roasted, like in this Thyme Pork Chops with Roasted Cauliflower recipe, and has the ability to soak up delicious spices and flavors, as it does in this Indian-Spiced Eggplant and Cauliflower Stew recipe. Most notable is its ability to serve as a sub for mashed potatoes, since the flavor is delicious and strikingly similar to that of the traditional potato — and it also cuts back on calories and carbs. Simply blend cooked cauliflower with some sea salt, low-fat sour cream, and olive oil, and you have yourself a delish mash remix!

Just like the apple, pears are full of fiber and low in calories, delivering a sweetly satisfying snack without the weight woes. For some delicious and unexpected appetizer recipes, serve Pear and Dried Apricot Salsa and Pear and Blue Cheese Flatbread — your guests will be begging for the recipes!

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