Are you one of the many that are struggling with hormonal imbalances? Research shows that while precise worldwide figures are unavailable, hormonal imbalances are affecting up to 80% of women at some point in their lives.

And by the way, lest you think it’s just women dealing with this issue, studies reveal approximately 40% to 50% of men (mostly those over 60) are also dealing with hormonal imbalances.

While I can’t speak to the causes of this growing malady, I can speak to what specialists in this area say can help with all the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. Can you guess what the universal advice is? “Avoid processed foods and eat more whole foods” (no surprise, right?).

One of these specialists is Dr. Mindy H. Pelz, D.C, a nutrition and functional health expert who has spent more than two decades helping thousands of people successfully reclaim their health. She is a recognized leader in the alternative health field and a pioneer in the fasting movement.

As part of her treatment regimen, she creates recipes around the foods that are the most powerful in addressing hormonal imbalance. One such recipe is her Pumpkin Protein Pancakes. Dr. Pelz says she loves this recipe because it’s a comfort food and hormone-helper all in one. Pumpkin is a remarkable food on many levels because it:

• is full of beta-carotene that protects the gut and brain
• helps keep blood sugar stable
• is rich in magnesium, potassium, and fiber, which helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels and also promotes healthy digestion
• contains healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can reduce the risk of heart disease
• is a good source of zinc, which is essential for prostate health and keeps the immune system strong
• is rich in antioxidants (vitamin E and selenium), which also helps boost the immune system
• and the list goes on…

So whether it’s hormone issues or just a hankering for some comfort food, Dr. Pelz’s recipe might be just what you’re looking for. Here for your dining delight is her popular and healing recipe. See what you think.

Pumpkin Protein Pancakes

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon melted Coconut Oil
3/4 cup gluten-free flour
1/4 cup vegetable protein powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch ginger
1 pinch nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
PUMPKIN CARAMEL MAPLE
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
5 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons non-dairy milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1 dash vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Mix: Stir milk and apple cider vinegar, let sit 5 mins. Whisk in pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and coconut oil.

2. Combine: Add flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Let batter rest 5-10 mins.

3. Cook: Heat griddle, spray lightly, and cook pancakes 2-3 minutes per side until golden.

4. Make Caramel: In a small saucepan, whisk pumpkin caramel ingredients. Bring to a boil, whisk until slightly thickened.

5. Serve: Stack pancakes, drizzle with pumpkin caramel.

Recipe formatted with the Cook'n Recipe Software from DVO Enterprises.