As we dig our coziest sweaters out of the closet to keep us warm in the brisk autumn air, farmers are digging vibrant root vegetables out of organic soil to comfort and sustain us as we transition into the cooler months.
Grown underground, root vegetables absorb a large amount of nutrients from the soil, including vitamins C, B, A and iron. As complex carbohydrates, root veggies help to regulate blood sugar, and their high fiber content keeps digestion in motion. Since they originate in the ground and have a denser quality than lighter summer greens, root vegetables are said to ground and balance us. These veggies help our bodies acclimate to the season change, which may otherwise be a shock to our systems.
Here are our 5 favorite root vegetables to incorporate into autumnal eating:
> Beets
Both red and golden beets are packed with phytonutrients called betalains, which may increase the body’s antioxidant capacity. Beets are brilliant blood cleansers and known for keeping digestion on-point. They’re also a great source of inorganic nitrate. Strong evidence suggests that nitrate gets metabolized to nitric oxide, which reduces hypertension and improves cardiovascular health (hello, Oxygenator Shot!). Enjoy beets shredded raw in a hearty fall salad, or slow-roasted in the oven for rich, caramelized goodness. Simply bake with the skins on at 325°F for 2 hours (or more, if you have time). The longer the beets bake, the sweeter they’ll taste!
> Carrots
This wouldn’t be a list of roots without including the classic carrot. Known for their beta-carotene content, which the body converts into antioxidant vitamin A, carrots are essential for healthy vision, bones and teeth—not to mention glowing skin. Get your daily glow with an Organic Avenue Carrot Juice—perfect on its own or mixed with another beverage. Our favorite combo is equal parts Carrot and Mellow Love! At home, peel and munch on them raw, or dip them in your favorite hummus or guacamole. Simply steam carrots with a touch of coconut oil and pinch of sea salt for a comforting side dish or main event on a fall evening.
> Ginger
This beloved root vegetable is commonly used as a spice in many cultures. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger has been shown to aid in digestion, treat nausea, arthritis, colds and headaches. Add an inch of ginger root to your favorite green juice or smoothie recipe at home, or incorporate chopped ginger into a mixed vegetable stir-fry with nama shoyu or coconut aminos. You can also pick up a Ginger Shot at OA—one ounce of pure ginger juice to spice up your day!
> Turmeric
Just like ginger, turmeric is a beloved ‘cure-all’ root that’s found in cuisine all over the world. Anti-bacterial and antimicrobial, it’s used to strengthen the immune system, facilitate digestion and even heal aches, pains and wounds. Golden turmeric is also known for its beatifying properties. Many aestheticians swear by turmeric paste to brighten the complexion and treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Get your fix with a concentrated OA Turmeric Shot or refreshingly spicy Turmeric Tonic, and make sure to sprinkle turmeric powder on your favorite fall veggies!
> Sweet Potatoes
Technically “tubers,” sweet potatoes are not only hearty and comforting, but packed with nutrients, including more vitamin C and calcium than white potatoes. Like carrots, they’re high in beta-carotene, but also contain glutathione, a super-antioxidant that helps the body manufacture human growth hormone, combating the aging process. We love ours baked naked, or sliced into wedges with coconut oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for healthy sweet potato “fries.” You can even experiment with warming spices like cumin, turmeric, cayenne and cinnamon. While orange is our favorite color, don’t be afraid to try the purple-skinned Japanese variety for an even sweeter experience!
