It may still be warm outside, but we have come to know that when Starbucks is selling Pumpkin Lattes, it is time to pull out our boots and change our front door decor. Many of us breathe a sigh of relief that the cooler weather will be here soon and our food choices can now move to the more hearty options that autumn invites.
This beautiful time of year ushers in food choices from the aforementioned lattes to candy by the Costco-sized bagful, and treats at every turn that are unrelenting until the winter holiday season comes to an end. These processed treats while enticing, are usually high in sugar and fat which, when consumed in excess, lead to obesity and related concerns such as diabetes and heart disease. There are, however, ways to indulge your desire to participate fully this fall while maintaining your health, and even improving it!
Pumpkins are the answer! In their natural form, whether from fresh whole squash or canned without added sugar, pumpkins are extremely good for you and your eyesight. They contain all of the secret weapon nutrients such as vitamin A, lutein, zeaxanthin, and flavonoids that combat macular degeneration and slow the loss of vision that comes along with this disease. Pumpkin contains antioxidants that tame free radicals making them part of the cancer-fighting superfoods category. These orange fleshed squash are low in calories and contain fiber, vitamin C, beta carotene all great for skin, heart, and overall wellness. Pumpkin is easy to add to your diet. Roast pumpkin chunks in the oven with olive oil, salt & garlic, make pumpkin soup from canned products, add fresh or frozen pumpkin chunks to a stew or chili for added sweetness and complexity. Spice up your morning with this recipe for a pumpkin smoothie.
https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/pumpkin-pie-protein-smoothie/
Pumpkin seeds are meant to be eaten as well. Roast them with a touch of sea salt and oil. These seeds are high in fiber and protein. They contain many micronutrients including manganese, copper, and antioxidants. Sprinkle them over soups, salads, yogurt or just munch them straight out of your hand!
In addition to eating pumpkin, this is the best time of year to get yourself moving! Stop procrastinating and simply go outside to walk, hike or cycle through the countryside looking for changing colors. Visit an apple orchard to pick fresh apples or a pumpkin patch to pick pumpkins and get lost in a corn maze with your besties! Crafting and decorating opportunities are endless with the season’s color palate of warm tones. Check out Pinterest for ideas and inspiration.
From all of us at Allied Eye, we wish you a very happy, pumpkin-filled autumn and a healthier Halloween than ever before!