A Healthy Holiday: Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Recipe

This time of year, it can be hard to stick to a healthy diet. No matter how often we tell ourselves we'll feel better if we eat better, if you're anything like me you over-indulged this Thanksgiving. Don't feel too guilty when reaching for the pumpkin pie, however.  Pumpkin offers tons of beta carotene, a pro-vitamin that converts vitamin A and is known to improve signs of aging skin. But what is a healthier way to incorporate pumpkin into our diet instead of splurging on pie or pumpkin spice lattes? Enter: pumpkin "pie" oatmeal.

"This time of year it can be hard resist  the temptations around us," says Anca Tchelebi, M.D., of Park Avenue Medical Spa. "To really maximize the benefits of pumpkin, try mixing it with fresh oatmeal. When the body consumes too much sugar it can increase inflammation and as a result takes a negative effect our skin. Oatmeal and pumpkin are a great combination of foods that digest slowly in our body while improving all over skin health. This recipe is sure to keep your skin glowing and your body full"

If you or your clients are looking for a better way to incorporate pumpkin into your diets, here's the recipe for Tchelebi's pumpkin pie oatmeal:

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tsp honey (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional toppings: chopped pecans, slivered almonds, fresh berries

Directions: In a large saucepan, combine the oats,  almond milk, water, pumpkin, and pumpkin pie spice, and whisk to combine. Bring to a boil and cook for five to 10 minutes before removing from the heat. Stir in vanilla and honey to taste. Top with nuts or fresh berries.

RELATED STORIES

Healthy How-To: The Royal Paxos Salad

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day with These Pumpkin-Inspired Treatments

Mirbeau Welcomes Fall with Seasonal Spa and Culinary Additions