As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s something deeply grounding about a warm bowl of chili. This Pumpkin Collagen Chili isn’t just a comfort food, it’s a nutrient-packed, gut-loving, skin-supporting meal designed with functional nutrition in mind.
Why Pumpkin + Collagen Is a Power Pair
Pumpkin is one of fall’s most nutrient-dense foods. It’s rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that supports immune health, vision, and skin integrity — all especially important as we move into cooler weather. Pumpkin puree is 90% water adding extra hydration to every dish it is in. And, collagen works best when you’re hydrated
Adding unflavored collagen gives this chili an extra boost of amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline that help support gut lining repair, skin elasticity, and joint health.
But here’s the key: collagen synthesis requires vitamin C. Without enough vitamin C, your body can’t effectively use those amino acids to build or repair collagen.That’s why this chili also features vitamin C–rich ingredients like bell peppers and tomatoes — a functional pairing that helps your body actually use the collagen you’re taking.
Functional Benefits at a Glance
- Gut support: Collagen and pumpkin’s soluble fiber help soothe and nourish the digestive tract.
- Joint & skin health: Collagen peptides provide the building blocks for connective tissue repair.
- Immune support: Vitamin C from peppers and tomatoes aids collagen absorption and immunity.
- Seasonal nourishment: Warm spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
When we choose ingredients with purpose — pairing collagen with vitamin C, adding fiber for gut support, and embracing anti-inflammatory spices — even something as humble as chili becomes an intentional act of nourishment.Enjoy this recipe as a reminder that food is one of God’s most powerful tools for healing and restoration — body, mind, and spirit.
About Stephanie Crabtree, RD
Stephanie is a holistic registered dietitian with 15 years of experience, passionate about helping Christian women overcome exhaustion, bloating, and hormone imbalances through a faith-rooted, real food approach. She’s the creator of Restoring Eden, a transformational gut and hormone healing course designed to bring women back to the vibrant health God intended. Ironically, Stephanie used to despise the taste of matcha—and couldn’t handle collagen in coffee. But since discovering Yonder’s collagen and creating this nourishing matcha recipe, it’s become a daily favorite. With its rich antioxidants and gut-supportive properties, matcha is now a key part of her mid-day ritual.
Use code STEPHANIE15 for 15% off Yonder products.
To learn more about Stephanie or her 8-week online nutrition course Restoring Eden, follow her on Instagram @Holistic.Health.RD
