By: Kelsey Hendrix, University of Alabama Dietetic Intern
Happy Fall, y’all! It's that time of year - cooler weather, colorful leaves, and pumpkin everything! Pumpkins are so much more than colorful decorations and spiced lattes. Pumpkins are a SUPERFOOD that can easily be incorporated into meals and snacks for extra nutrition.
Pumpkins are a type of squash and are packed with nutrients, low in calories, and high in fiber. Which nutrients are they packed with? They are rich in Vitamins A, C, E, potassium, folate, iron, and more!
Pumpkins get their bright orange color from beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, boost immunity, and protect vision and eye health.
Whenever you're out at the pumpkin farm with your kids, be sure to share with them all these facts about the power of pumpkins!
And here are a few recipes you can try at home with your Itty Bitty Baker:
Don’t throw away pumpkin seeds after carving! Use this super simple recipe to turn your left-over Jack-O’-Lantern into a yummy snack. Kids of all ages will enjoy learning how to make roasted pumpkin seeds.
Kick off the Fall season with these healthy and easy to make pumpkin muffins! This kid-friendly recipe combines canned pumpkin and Greek yogurt to make a tasty treat that your kiddo will love to bake and eat.
Why limit pumpkin to just desserts? Check out this recipe to see how to include pumpkin into everyone’s favorite Fall food. Plus – what a great way to teach your kids how to incorporate healthy veggies into everyday meals!
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