October traditionally has pumpkins galore, not just because it is a garden seasonal at the time, but also because in many places certain holidays celebrate using pumpkins - Thanksgiving and Halloween! 

Pumpkins are not just beautiful and delicious, but also have many health benefits. Here are a few perks of including pumpkins in your diet:

• Rich in Vitamin A - This is important because Vitamin A can help strengthen your immune system

• Rich in antioxidants including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin - Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and as a result protect your cells. 

• Contains Vitamins C and E - These two vitamins function as antioxidants and also help fight free radicals that could damage your eyes

• Low Calorie, Nutrient Dense, Great Fiber Source - One of the best foods and snacks when you want to eat healthy. This amazing squash is a weight management dream because it has less carbohydrates than similar foods, is right in fiber, and is made up of 94% water.

These are just some of the benefits of pumpkins. This amazing fruit/vegetable (botanists consider it a fruit while culinary experts think more of it as a vegetable) is a great addition to your diet. Here is a simple recipe from Once Upon a Chef to try at home. Click on the picture to go directly to the page and see a step by step picture guide. 

You are what you eat! There is a reason people say you should ‘eat clean foods’. What you are putting into your body is responsible for nourishing as well as replenishing your system. If you eat lots of fruits and vegetables and hydrate well, your body will love you for it. Each month we want to give you a recipe to help you treat your skin to more vitamins and minerals that help you achieve healthier skin.

In their blog, thingsImadetoday.com has a great recipe for a smoothie that is gluten-free, vegan, and packed with lots of great hydrating fruits and veggies! Try it and while you sip on it, read below about some of the benefits from this great combination of flavors!

Here are some of the benefits you’ll get from the ingredients:

Cucumber: One of most hydrating snacks to have around! They have anti-inflammatory properties, and are loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and folic acid. The vitamin C helps stimulate new cell growth and folic acid helps fight off environmental toxins; the result is skin that looks firmer and healthier. 

Kale: Packed with Vitamins A, B, C, and K. Rich in antioxidants, iron, and phytonutrients. This leafy green helps tighten pores, reduces dark circles, promotes collagen production, increases cell turnover, prevents free-radical damage, and detoxifies the skin.

Pear: High in fiber, these fruits help keep your skin soft and smooth. Pears also have vitamin C, vitamin K, and copper that help fight against free radicals in your body. The vitamins and minerals in pears help your skin loop plump and toned.  

Celery: Another ingredient that is packed full of water! This translates to hydration and your skin loves this. Another great thing about celery, it contains silica, which has moisture and elasticity boosting properties. It is also rich in vitamins A and C which help protect your skin from free radicals as well as early aging. 

Pineapple Juice: High in vitamin C, bromelain and antioxidants. Helps prevent and treat acne, fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. 

Recipe Source:

http://www.thingsimadetoday.com/2015/07/21/green-on-green-on-green-smoothie/