Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great breakfast staple across the world and has been for years! The only issue is that sometimes all the toppings and sweeteners can deteriorate the nutritional value that oatmeal has to offer. Oatmeal is high in fiber, iron, protein, magnesium, and many other vitamins and minerals. These nutrients provided by oats can help lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar, and promote weight loss. Many commercialized oat brands add sugar or other sweeteners to prepackaged servings. For this recipe, I recommend using gluten-free oats that are rolled oats or steel cut oats, and even instant oats are fine as long as there is only one ingredient on the label.

Flax seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Chia seeds are also a great source of omega-3s, as well as calcium. Hemp seeds are a complete protein and contain both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Maca root helps to balance hormones and increases energy. Getting sweetness from cinnamon, vanilla extract, and protein powder that is only sweetened with stevia leaf ensures bursting flavor without added sugar spikes and unnecessary carbohydrates. Finally, including superfood pumpkin is perfect for getting added nutrients and a seasonal flair!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup gluten-free old fashion oats

• 1 cup water or 1 cup plant-based milk

• 1 scoop Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Protein

• 1/4 cup pumpkin

• 1 teaspoon organic raw maca powder

• 1 tablespoon flax seeds

• 1 tablespoon hemp seeds

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional topping ideas:

• Cacao nibs

• Cacao powder

• Coconut Flakes

• Almond Butter

DIRECTIONS

1. Bring a cup of water (or milk) to a boil. Add in cinnamon and vanilla extract. Once boiling, add the oats.

2. If using old-fashioned oats, turn down to low/medium heat for 10 minutes and occasionally stir (check directions because some brands and oat varieties differ in cook time – I used Bobs Red Mill Old Fashioned Oats). Once the oats are fully cooked, pour into a bowl.

3. Mix in a scoop of protein powder, 1 teaspoon of maca powder, and the additional ¼ cup of almond milk.

4. Top with flax seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, cinnamon, and any other ingredients of your choosing!

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