Q: When is a pumpkin not a pumpkin?

If you are like me and don’t have time to do the labor intensive work of making fresh pumpkin you can buy pumpkin in the can. This is an easy way out and one that will avoid your having to remove seeds or cut your hand trying to cut out the pumpkin meat.

But a huge warning, be careful not to mistakenly buy the pumpkin pie mix. You can easily confuse the 2, especially because you are over 40.

Put your glasses on and read those ingredients for pumpkin only.

Pumpkin is awesome for your health. High in carotenoids, it keeps your immune system strong. It’s filled with anti oxidants and it reduces the risk of macular degeneration. It’s high in fiber, loaded with potassium and lots more nutrition goodness.  But I’ll stop now and tell you how you can easily add pumpkin into your meals to begin maximizing your health.

OOOH but one more very important benefit you’ll want to know. Pumpkin slows the aging process... WOOT WOOT! That’s all I needed to know.

Don’t make it complicated.

Just add.

Add pumpkin puree:

• to your smoothie,
• to your oatmeal,
• to your plain greek yogurt,
• in your pancakes,
• make a hot pumpkin chocolate drink
• in place of applesauce in your recipes,
• to the inside of your egg omelet (instead of cheese). 

YUM-azing!  (if you think of other ways, please share with me in the comment below)

This waffle recipe from one of my favorite companies  will bring a smile to your weekend face.

Don’t forget the pumpkin seeds. Using the same philosophy, just add them in and on:

• top of salad
• top of soup
• brown rice or quinoa
• with oats and cranberries
• a kale and bean saute
• pumpkin hot chocolate

You can even add some pumpkin puree, almond milk, cinnamon and nutmeg and heat on the stove for a delicious warm and creamy soup.

It doesn’t get any easier or better than that!

Let me know what you are doing with your pumpkin. I’d love to hear your comments.