Pumpkins are a favorite when it comes to Halloween decorating, but did you know they may possess healthy healing powers too? They are full of nutrients from the pumpkin meat to the seeds, so before you throw your pumpkins away, learn delicious ways you can put that pumpkin to your benefit.
We all love pumpkin pie for the Thanksgiving holiday, but pumpkins are so much more than pie. The pumpkin meat itself is low in calories and high in fiber, and if that weren’t enough, it can boost vision with its Vitamin A, protect your heart with antioxidants and phytosterols, and the beta-carotene may also help in the prevention of some cancers. Then we move on to those delicious seeds that are filled with minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium, in just one quarter cup of pumpkin, plus omega 3 and protein, aiding in everything from improved sleep, heart, liver, and immune system.
So how can we add this to our diet besides making a pumpkin pie?
Some of my favorites are adding it to pumpkin smoothies (see recipe below), oatmeal with toasted walnuts and some pumpkin spice, and pumpkin bread. The seeds can be baked, remove the shells, and add to salads, homemade granola, or a trail mix. Be creative and enjoy your pumpkin creations. I’ve added my favorite pumpkin smoothie recipe to enjoy for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Pumpkin Spice Smoothie
(Serves 2)
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (can substitute with rice or other favorite milk option)
¾ cup pumpkin puree
1 small banana (or ½ large)
1 tsp pure maple syrup (or Honey)
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Pinch of Allspice
Directions
- Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour into your favorite glass and sprinkle with cinnamon.
