Summer is taking leave as the bounty of autumn returns to the Florida region. As Floridians we may not experience the golden change of leaves like our Northern neighbors but our internal thermostat is keenly aware of this atmospheric change. As the air begins to dry and the temperature begins to decrease, there are indicators or markers to which our bodies internally respond.

Within Traditional Chinese medicine theory there are five distinct elements of cyclical change: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These five elements can relate to seasons, flavors, colors, organs and more. The metal element relates to the fall season, the spicy flavor, the color white and the organs of the lungs and large intestine.

There are several exceptional foods that assist in nourishing and supporting the lungs and large intestine. These foods aid the body during the autumn months and are easily accessible to consumers. Almonds and honey are a simple addition to any diet and they help in lubricating the lungs during these dry months. Additionally; pears, persimmons and white mushrooms help to cool the lungs.

The recipe below is both delicious and soothing as we transition into the fall season when coughs can appear.

Traditional Chinese Recipe for Coughs

4 cups water
1/4 cup of almonds (about a handful)
2 pears (any variety), cut into pieces
1 or 2 large pieces of tangerine peel
2 to 3 tablespoons of honey

Directions:
Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add the almonds, pears and tangerine peel. Allow the mixture to boil down to two cups. Stir in the honey. Drink while warm once or twice a day for about a week.

Compliments of Dr. Debra Bebell, Acupuncture Physcian

Autumn is also the delicious season for fall baking and pumpkins! Be sure to whip up a batch of these protein and fiber packed snacks this year. They're great for you and yummy too!

Roasted Pumpkin Seed Snack Recipe

1 1/2 cups pumpkin seeds
2 teaspoons of olive oil
sprinkle of salt - (sea salt or kosher salt preferably)
garlic powder (optional)
cayenne pepper (optional)
cajun seasoning (optional)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
With a large metal spoon, scoop out the seeds from the inside of your pumpkin. Separate the seeds from the stringy pulp and rinse with water in a colander. While it's OK to leave some strings and pulp on your seeds (it adds flavor) clean off any major chunks.
Lay seeds out on paper towels to dry.
Toss pumpkin seeds in a bowl with the oil and seasonings of your choice.
Spread pumpkin seeds in a single layer on baking sheet.
Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and Enjoy!

Try These Additional Flavor Combinations for Gourmet Roasted Pumpkin Seed Snacks:
Italian Style Pumpkin Seeds -- Italian Seasoning Blend, Parmesan Cheese, Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper
Pumpkin Pie Pumpkin Seeds -- Cinnamon, Ground Ginger and Pinch of Nutmeg, Olive Oil
Greek Syle -- Lemon Pepper Seasoning Blend, Oregano, Salt, Olive Oil
Buffalo Wings Pumpkin Seeds -- Butter, Tabasco Sauce, Salt

Why say goodbye to salads during the Fall and Winter? For a light, flavorful salad dressing, try this oil-free avocado dressing recipe. It's packed with nutrients and avocados are a vitamin E powerhouse!

Avocado Dressing

2 large, ripe Hass avocados, halfed, seeded and peeled
3 - 4 garlic cloves
1 small - medium onion
Zest of 2 limes
2-3 teaspoons of lime juice (to taste)
1/2 cup light sour cream or yogurt (plain)
2 - 4 Tablespoons cilantro to taste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (optional)

Directions:
In a food processor or a blender, combine avocados, garlic cloves, onion, lime zest and lime juice. Blend until smooth. The dressing will still be a little thick. Stir in sour cream or yogurt, cilantro, salt, pepper and hot sauce.  Serve over your favorite salad or use as a dip.