The Top 5 Fall Foods for Weight Loss

Fall is officially here! Gear up by stocking up on these healthy fall foods.

1. Apples: There's a reason apples are number one on the list! Probably one of the most versatile fall foods around, nutrient - and fiber-rich apples can be used in everything from beverages to main courses to desserts. Apples are the perfect addition to your weight-loss plan, says Karen Langston, a certified nutritionist and board member of The National Association of Nutritional Professionals. Low-cal, full of vitamins and minerals, and full of fiber, apples help maintain your blood-sugar level, staving off cravings for high calorie no-no foods. Plus, the low-sodium content in apples can help prevent excess water weight and retention, Langston says. Try one of our five favorite apple recipes this fall.

2. Pumpkins: They're not just for Halloween! Pumpkin is not only a super healthy treat, but its also one of the greatest weight-loss foods around, Langston says. Low in calories, but full of fiber, vitamins , and minerals, pumpkin is also an excellent source of the important antioxidant beta-carotene. Enjoy it fresh or canned-you'll still get the same nutritional benefits. You can even have it for breakfast! Langston recommends mixing 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin with cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a few raw almonds. Need more ideas? Try one of these amazing ways to cook with pumpkin.

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3. Pecans: "If you're going nuts trying to lose weight, think about adding pecans to your diet," says Rania Batayneh, a nutritionist, eating strategist, and owner of Essential Nutrition for You. "Just one handful contains vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and fiber, as well as antioxidants, and because pecans are so rich in heart-healthy fat, it doesn't take too many to feel full. According to research from the Harvard School of Public Health , when nuts (including pecans) were included in diet, people were able to lose weight and keep the weight off for a longer period of time than people who followed the more typically recommended low-fat diet." Eat them alone as a healthy snack or in this guiltless apple pie recipe.

4. Pork: Believe it or not, pork is a great source of lean protein , says Barbara Mendez, a nutritional consultant and registered pharmacist in New York. Lean protein helps you stay fuller longer and helps preserve lean muscle mass. Since muscle helps burn fat, holding onto muscle can help promote a healthier long-term body weight, Mendez says. Just keep it lean by preparing your pork without frying or heavy breading. (We love this healthy recipe for Grilled Pork).

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5. Frisee: This curly, 'frizzy' looking leafed veggie is a variety of endive and provides vitamins , minerals, and dietary fiber, all within a low-calorie budget. Its taste can be slightly bitter, but its texture lends itself to creamier dressings (just keep them weight-loss friendly by making your own at home).

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