It’s pumpkin spice season – which means pumpkin treats, drinks and recipes are everywhere! But beware: many pumpkin-themed foods are loaded with calories, sugar and other somewhat-scary ingredients you should, for the most part, avoid. Luckily, there are some better-for-you ways to enjoy this season’s favorite flavor. Here are seven of our favorite better-for-you pumpkin protein products available at Vitacost.com.
Pumpkin protein powders
Sprout Living Simple Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder
This protein powder provides 20 grams of USDA organic pure and clean pumpkin seed protein, along with a powerful array of essential fatty acids. The seeds are cold-pressed to naturally concentrate protein by removing some of the seeds' oil (while maintaining its nutritional integrity), then carefully milled into a fine powder. It’s keto and paleo friendly, vegan, non-GMO and free of sugar, dairy and grains.
Nature’s Plus Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein
Just one scoop of this plant-based organic protein powder supplies 15 grams of protein. It’s pure and natural, derived straight from pumpkin seeds, allowing you to get all the benefits without any artificial additives. It’s also a complete protein, delivering all the essential amino acids. With only 1 gram of sugar low in carbs, you can enjoy it in a pre- or post-workout shake or as an anytime nutrition boost.
Pumpkin protein bars
Everyone appreciates the convenience of grab-and-go
protein bars, especially when they’re full of nutrients and good for us. Enjoy one of these fall-flavored bars with a cup of hot cider, tea or coffee for a satisfying breakfast or afternoon treat.
Organic Food Bar Protein Bar Pumpkin
This easy-to-digest energy bar supplies 22 grams of high-quality, plant-based protein (which is a lot for a bar!). Because it’s made with 100% raw ingredients with no preservatives or additives, you won’t suffer that sluggish feeling that can follow eating a bar with refined ingredients.
Health Warrior Pumpkin Seeds Honey Sea Salt Bars
If you had to use one word to describe these bars, “yum” would be it! Rich in minerals and made with just a handful of other wholesome, nutritious ingredients, Health Warrior bars provide 8 grams of clean, plant-based protein.
Go Raw Organic & Gluten-Free Sprouted Pumpkin Seed Bar
With minimally processed, good-for you ingredients that are sprouted and dried (not baked!), Go Raw bars supply all the nutrition, protein and energy you need for breakfast or a post-workout snack.
Pumpkin snacks & supplements
Eden Foods Spicy Pumpkin Seeds Pocket Snacks
One packet of these dry-roasted spicy pumpkin seeds supplies 8 grams of protein, with zero sugar, low sodium and healthy fats. These seeds make a super-healthy snack and can be kept at your desk, tucked into a lunch bag or carried in your purse for a quick-and-easy nutrition boost.
Planetary Herbals Full Spectrum™ Pumpkin Seed Oil
While technically not a snack, you can add a little extra pumpkin nutrition to your regimen with a
pumpkin seed oil supplement. Besides being a good source of zinc, pumpkin seed oil supplies antioxidants and may promote prostate health.
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†These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
Bonus recipe!
Use your favorite
pumpkin powder to make this protein-packed, festive fall latte.
Protein Pumpkin Latte
Ingredients
8 oz.
brewed coffee
1 scoop
pumpkin seed protein
¼ cup
vanilla almond milk (unsweetened or sweetened)
tsp.
pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp.
vanilla extract
Directions
Using a hand blender or mini whisk, blend together protein, almond milk, pumpkin spice and vanilla extract. Whisk in coffee a little at a time. Optional: Whisk or froth almond milk for topping and sprinkle with cinnamon.
