It’s autumn, and I’m not sure there is anything that says “fall has arrived” as much as the pumpkin? I mean, autumn and pumpkin are pretty much synonymous. Bring on the cozy and festivities. I love all the fall hearty and warming food choices and beautiful colors!
Like all orange fruits and vegetables, pumpkins contain carotenoids. This pigment is responsible for their vibrant colors and for promoting glowing skin. Carotenoids are a potent anti-oxidant which aids in a healthy complexion and helps reverse UV damage from the summer.
Pumpkins are also packed with a host of vitamins and minerals including B vitamins, which assist with a number of skin functions. My favorite, niacin (B3) is particularly helpful for acne sufferers as it oxygenates the skin by widening blood vessels. The big boy, vitamin C, helps brighten the skin and promotes collagen production, improving firmness and elasticity. All these minerals are working to repair and replenish your skin cells, helping you prepare for the colder weather.
Good for: anti-aging, acne, sun-seekers.
Recipe:
Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls
I’m always looking for quick and healthy sweet snacks to eat on the go and satisfy my sweet tooth (especially in between clients). I found this recipe on delish.com. According to the recipe, it only takes 15 minutes to whip these up and it makes 8 treats. So, we’ll need to make a double batch for the spa.
Ingredients:
- 1 c. old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 c. unsweetened coconut flakes or shavings
- 1/2 c. unsweetened almond butter, warmed
- 1/3 c. unsweetened pumpkin puree
- 1/4 c. golden raisins
- 2 tbsp. maple syrup
- 2 tbsp. chia seeds
- 2 tbsp. pumpkin seeds
- 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- In a large bowl, mix together oats, coconut, almond butter, pumpkin puree, raisins, maple syrup, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin pie spice until combined
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 2” balls. Transfer to a plate or small baking sheet.
- Refrigerate balls until set, 20 to 30 minutes.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to eat.
For more recipes, visit our Eating Beautiful Facebook group.
