“Nourish the Season: Staying Healthy Through the Power of Soup”

Soup

As the fall season arrives, we are blessed to witness the beauty of nature—the colorful leaves, the crisp air, and the comforting change in weather. But while the temperature may cool, our dedication to health and wellness must remain consistent and strong.

For many, the cooler months bring the temptation to slip back into unhealthy eating habits. Yet this time of year is the perfect opportunity to embrace one of the most nourishing and versatile foods we can enjoy—soups.

Soups: A Hot Smoothie for the Soul

A good soup is more than a warm meal—it is a nutrient-packed dish that can help maintain or even improve our health. Think of soup as a “hot smoothie,” filled with vitamins, minerals, and natural energy. When prepared properly, it can help with:

• Weight management by keeping you full and satisfied

• Boosting immunity with healing herbs and vegetables

• Supporting heart health by controlling sodium and fat intake

Homemade vs. Canned: Take Control of Your Health

Most store-bought soups are loaded with preservatives and high sodium levels, which can lead to high blood pressure and other illnesses. When we prepare soups from scratch, we control every ingredient—the flavor, the quality, and the health benefits.

A few simple and powerful soup options include:

• Navy Bean Soup: A complete meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients that support heart and digestive health.

• Lentil Soup: Helps lower cholesterol and sustain energy throughout the day.

• Vegetable Soup: Excellent for detoxing and strengthening the immune system.

• Tomato Soup: Rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, known to help fight disease.

Enhance your soups with natural seasonings such as turmeric, curry powder, garlic, onion, oregano, parsley, and thyme. These spices not only add rich flavor but also strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

A Mindset for All Seasons

Just because we are wearing more layers does not mean we should ignore our health. Many relax their habits in the fall and winter, thinking, “No one can see my belly under this sweater.” But true wellness is not seasonal—it is a mindset we carry throughout the year.

Let us continue to exercise discipline, eat consciously, and stay committed to the work we began during the warmer months.

Healthy Holidays: Love Your Family Through Better Food

As the holidays approach, comfort foods filled with sugar, salt, and processed ingredients often take center stage. However, true love for our families means being mindful of what we serve. Many of our loved ones live with high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity—conditions worsened by the very meals meant to bring joy.

This year, let us break that cycle. Add a healthy homemade soup to the table. Serve it with a fresh salad and a cup of herbal tea. It will fill the stomach and nourish the body and soul. Soups also travel well and can be kept warm in a thermos for lunch at work or school—making healthy eating simple and consistent.

Homemade Soup

Recipe: Classic Navy Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried navy beans

• 8 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 chopped onion

• 2 chopped carrots

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse beans and soak overnight, or use a quick soak method by boiling for 5 minutes and letting them sit for 1 hour.

2. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil until tender.

3. Add beans, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Cook for about 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until beans are soft.

5. Remove bay leaf, season to taste, and serve warm.

Optional: For a creamy texture, blend half the soup and return it to the pot.

We pray that this message reaches you in good spirit and encourages you to stay committed to your health journey. Longevity is not just about living long—it is about living strong.

As the trees shed their old leaves, let us also shed old habits that no longer serve our well-being. Stay healthy, stay mindful, and stay inspired.