Pumpkin-Spiced Madness

As the temperature cools down, our bodies crave the warmth of a hot drink and hands-down

the seasonal pop-culture drink of choice is Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte.

For better or for worse, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are not Clean Program approved as they contain a bevy of digestion-disrupting ingredients such as dairy and sugar along with highly processed thickeners and preservatives that won’t exactly leave you feeling healthy. (Check out thisclean alternative pumpkin latte.)

Pumpkins are a great low-calorie source of fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. There are so many ways to enjoy the pumpkin-spiced flavors of the season while maintaining optimal digestion, energy, and that healthy feeling. 

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are high in immunity-boosting zinc, making them the perfect snack when the temperature shifts.

Coat pumpkin seeds in coconut oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and roast on a low heat until dry. Keep these in your purse or desk drawer for easy-access during your 21-Day Program.

Raw pumpkin seeds can also be soaked overnight and then blended with fresh water to create pumpkin seed milk for your Daily Shake. This nut milk tastes slightly more bitter than almond milk and blends well with matcha (green tea) powder and stevia for a healthy pumpkin caffeine boost.

Pumpkin Meat

Canned unsweetened pumpkin purée is a great substitute for bananas to thicken smoothies while you are on special diet or cleanse. Check the ingredients and make sure you are using 100% pumpkin.

Cut a whole pumpkin into squares or slices and lightly steam or roast at 400 degrees. Incorporate this nutrient-dense squash into your daily meals or as a side dish at a dinner party. Top with a sesame dressing to compliment this earthy vegetable’s flavor.

Pumpkin Spice

The Starbucks spice mix includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove. These warming spices are easy to find and add to any of your Daily Shakes. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and cravings throughout the day, ginger and nutmeg can aid in digestion, and clove has anti-parasitic properties that can be beneficial whether you’re on a cleanse or just want to keep your immune system robust.

http://blog.cleanprogram.com/pumpkin-spiced-madness-three-clean-ways-to-enjoy-the-taste-of-the-season/