Chiropractic Care and Healthy Eating Go Hand in Hand!

It’s “that time of year.” Everywhere you go to eat, there is pumpkin spice something! Whether it’s your latte, a pastry, soup, or something else, pumpkin is offered in a variety of edible ways. But pumpkin isn’t just a tasty treat, there are many health benefits to eating pumpkin!

Thank goodness you can look at how pretty pumpkins are; they are actually helping your vision! Pumpkin is filled with nutrients that convert to vitamin A...and vitamin A helps promote good eye sight.

Pumpkin is a great source of fiber! Increasing your fiber intake is good for your digestive system and can also help you feel fuller longer; causing you to eat less and helping you lose weight. So, instead of a handful of M&Ms, grab a handful of pumpkin seeds for a snack!

Did you know chiropractic care along with healthy eating habits boosts your immunity! Pumpkin is chock full of vitamin C. It is a great way to get your vitamin C if you are tired of orange juice or taking a pill!

Try this recipe curtesy of Eating Well

Roasted Pumpkin-Apple Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds pie pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 2-inch chunks (see Tip)
• 4 large sweet-tart apples, such as Empire, Cameo or Braeburn, unpeeled, cored and cut into eighths
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1¼ teaspoons salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• ⅓ cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted (see Tip)
• 2 tablespoons hazelnut oil

1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Toss pumpkin (or squash), apples, olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt and pepper in a large bowl. Spread evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast, stirring once, for 30 minutes. Stir in sage and continue roasting until very tender and starting to brown, 15 to 20 minutes more.
3. Transfer about one-third of the pumpkin (or squash) and apples to a blender along with 2 cups broth. Puree until smooth. Transfer to a Dutch oven and repeat for two more batches. Season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and heat through over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent splattering, for about 6 minutes. Serve each portion topped with hazelnuts and a drizzle of hazelnut oil.

• Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave on High, covered, stirring frequently, or on the stovetop over medium heat.
• Tips: Make it easier to cut a pumpkin, acorn squash or other winter squash: pierce in several places with a fork; microwave on High for 45 to 60 seconds. Use a large sharp knife to cut in half. Remove the seeds and stringy fibers with a spoon.
• To toast chopped nuts, small nuts and seeds, place in a small dry skillet and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes.
• Cut Down on Dishes: A rimmed baking sheet is great for everything from roasting to catching accidental drips and spills. For effortless cleanup and to keep your baking sheets in tip-top shape, line them with a layer of foil before each use.