It's officially October, with pumpkin-mania is in full swing.

But before you roll your eyes at another pumpkin spice recipe, check this out:

Pumpkin is one of our favorite secret health foods.

The squash acts as a natural antioxidant thanks to its rich and varied carotenoid content, and it's a great source of fiber. Even the seeds are a great source of magnesium and protein.

So while the standard pumpkin spice latte might contain more sugar than pumpkin, we're all about true pumpkin recipes this fall.

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

It’s no secret we’re fans of the smoothie, but the addition of pumpkin sets this one apart.

Pumpkin adds an attractive creaminess and transforms your smoothie into something more like a milkshake than a tropical drink.

Complement Ambassador Sara Grandominico, who created this recipe, says it’s filling, delicious, and perfect for fall.

Plus, it’s super healthy with just 6 ingredients and loaded with protein thanks to Complement Protein.

Ingredients

• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 serving Complement protein powder
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 2 cups unsweetened nondairy milk

Instructions

Add all the ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until totally smooth. Feel free to add a few dates or some date syrup if you’d like a bit more sweetness, pour into a jar, and enjoy immediately!