November embraces many opportunities to enjoy socialising with young families and friends. Halloween and Guy Fawkes parties can be chilly occasions which tempt us with satisfying, but unhealthy food. Thanksgiving can also be a disaster area in terms of unhealthy eating.

To enjoy these colourful family festivities to the full choose delicious seasonal fayre, freshly harvested and prepared, when possible.

Alcohol is unlikely to be a temptation at these family events, so enjoy the warming soups, instead. Avoid traditional sausages and burgers, choosing baked potatoes, sweetcorn and beans. Choose crunchy and sweet apples instead of candy treats.

At Thanksgiving parties enjoy the seasonal vegetables of fall, and a taste of pumpkin pie. Pumpkins are super foods and, whether enjoyed as soup, roasted or as a sweet dessert, they are a seasonal food not to be missed.

Penny Rushton DNN RSHom practices at the Hale Clinic