Pumpkin Pancakes in Celebration of Fall!

(HealthNewsDigest.com) – One of our favorite things about Fall is pumpkins. Pumpkin carving is a favorite pastime for people of all ages and the squash serves as a festive centerpiece for the season. What many may not know is that pumpkins are packed with nutrients and vitamins – an even better reason to incorporate this squash into a variety of Fall dishes. Did you know that one cup of pumpkin provides 3 grams of fiber? Pumpkin also contains beta-carotene, which can help fight signs of aging such as wrinkles, and packs more potassium than a banana! Further, it is loaded with Vitamin C, aiding in digestion and promoting optimal health and wellbeing. Swap pumpkin in place of extra butter, oil and sugar to reduce fat and calories in some of your favorite dishes. In line with our Balanced Care Method and focus on healthy diet, we would like to share a fun and nutritious recipe for pumpkin pancakes in celebration of Fall!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup multi-grain (or whole-wheat) pancake mix
• 1/4 cup oatmeal, not instant
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1/3 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (secret ingredient; it adds texture and is also good for you)
• 3 eggs or 4-5 egg whites
• 1/4-1/3 cup vanilla almond milk, depending how thick you like your pancakes
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 1-2 packets of Stevia
• 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips for topping, optional

Directions1. In a medium bowl combine  the pancake mix, oats, salt, cinnamon, Stevia and pumpkin spice.2. Add the eggs (or egg whites), coconut oil, applesauce, pumpkin and vanilla. Start by mixing in a 1/4 cup of almond milk and add more if you desire thinner pancakes.3. Coat a pan with additional coconut oil or cooking spray and heat over low-medium heat. Cook each side of the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes, until they are a light, golden brown color.4. Place the pancakes on a plate and serve with 1 tablespoon of mini chocolate chips (optional), maple syrup or honey,  and a few dashes of cinnamon. Pair with fresh fruit for a well-balanced breakfast.Serves 2.As we announced last week, in observance of Family Caregivers Month, we invite you to join us for an engaging, one-hour webinar on Friday, November 15th at 11 AM Pacific, 2 PM Eastern. Led by Barbara Kivowitz and Roanne Weisman, co-authors of the book In Sickness As In Health: Helping Couples Cope with the Complexities of Illness, the webinar will cover what happens when chronic illness becomes part of a relationship and how to balance the roles of caregiver and loved one to ensure you provide optimal support. Space is limited, so register for the webinar today to ensure you spot is reserved!