Before you carve it up for a jack-o-lantern or set it on the steps as a porch decoration, try adding pumpkin to your diet to take advantage of its many health benefits. This nutritious autumn fruit can help protect the body against disease and it tastes great in more than just pie. When you pick pumpkins this harvest season, pick some for use in the kitchen to infuse your diet with the pumpkin’s many health benefits.
Both the flesh and the seeds of the pumpkin are nutritious and have disease-fighting properties. Pumpkins are rich in alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin E, pantothenic acid, potassium, and magnesium. Just a half cup of pumpkin contains five grams of fiber. Fiber is essential for reducing LDL cholesterol, supporting the digestive system, and controlling blood sugar. Pumpkin seeds also contain omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc. Moreover, pumpkin is a great addition to any diet as it is low in both calories and fat.
The antioxidants alpha-carotene and beta-carotene are transformed into vitamin A which supports healthy vision. Vitamin A also supports the immune system. Research suggests that alpha-carotene can prevent the growth of tumors and even slow the body’s aging process. Beta-carotene is a great protector of skin and has anti-inflammatory action. The beta-cryptoxanthin contained in pumpkins is associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer. Carotenoids are also essential for good cardiovascular health.
Research also suggests that pumpkin seeds can benefit prostate health. The carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids in pumpkin seeds appear to reduce the incidence of benign prostatic hypertrophy. The zinc also helps maintain prostate health. Pumpkin seeds also contain the same amount of the mood-enhancing amino acid tryptophan as a glass of milk.
Moreover, pumpkins contain phytosterols which are believed to reduce bad levels of cholesterol in the blood. Research suggests that these phytosterols can also lower the risk for certain cancers and support the immune system. Pumpkin seed oil is regarded as beneficial for the body’s nerves and tissues too.
Pumpkin flesh, seeds, and oil can benefit the body in many ways. It’s important to add pumpkin to the diet to take advantage of its healthful properties. Due to its versatility, pumpkin can enhance many culinary dishes. Both canned pumpkin and fresh pumpkin puree are widely used to make pumpkin pie in America, but pumpkin can also be roasted, steamed, and boiled. Pumpkin can be mashed and added into stews, soups, and even sauces. Pumpkin seeds are nutritious snacks that are easy to carry along for eating anywhere. Some veterinarians also recommend feeding canned pumpkins to dogs that have digestive problems due to its rich fiber content.
Although pumpkins are usually only available in fall and early winter, canned pumpkin can be purchased throughout the year. Canned pumpkin also contains the benefits of fresh pumpkin. So, before you carve your pumpkin into an elaborate candle holder, consider cooking with some to obtain its powerful health benefits.
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