Your pumpkin spice survival guide
Fall is here, and yes - pumpkin spice everything is calling your name. Let’s enjoy the season without overdoing it or feeling guilty.
Fall brings cozy vibes, cooler weather, and the irresistible aroma of pumpkin spice lattes & muffins seemingly everywhere. While these treats are part of the fun, it’s easy to fall into an “all-or-nothing” mindset - either you indulge in everything or feel like you have to avoid it entirely. This month, let’s find a middle ground that keeps your body nourished and lets you enjoy the season.
Navigating pumpkin spice season
Savor the Moment: Take a pause and really notice your pumpkin treat. Put away distractions. Smell it. Taste it. Try to actually ENJOY each bite instead of eating on autopilot. Mindful eating helps you feel satisfied without overdoing it and makes treats feel truly special.
Pair your pumpkin: Pair your pumpkin treat with a protein or fiber-rich food, like some plain yogurt or a handful of nuts. Or - even aim to have it post meal (think nourishing lunch and then the pumpkin muffin vs. the pumpkin muffin solo at breakfast). This slows digestion, keeps your energy steady, and helps you feel full longer. Small adjustments like this let you enjoy treats & allow you to feel good later!
Skip the guilt: Enjoying pumpkin flavor doesn’t undo your progress or make you ‘bad.’ Nourishment isn’t just protein, fats, and carbs - it’s also the joy, experience, and culture of eating. Savoring pumpkin spice in October is a perfect example of cultural nourishment. Let go of rigid rules and remember: one treat won’t define your day. When approached with curiosity and kindness, treats can easily fit into a balanced lifestyle.
Healthy Pumpkin Picks
Pumpkin spice upgrades you should add to your shopping cart this Fall:
Upgrade your PSL from Starbucks
Love the PSL but want to skip the excess sugar and cream? Try this:
1 pump of pumpkin syrup (instead 3-4)
No whipped cream
All the cozy flavor with less added sugar :)
Ready to break free from diet trends and finally take charge of your health? That's where MPM Nutrition comes in. Whether you're looking to transform your relationship with food, elevate wellness in the workplace, or create nutrition content that truly connects, we’re here to help.