With Halloween right around the corner there’s no better time than now to talk about pumpkins. Pumpkins, which are a part of the squash family, are actually considered a fruit. Both the flesh and seeds of pumpkins are extremely healthy, each with their own multitude of benefits, which is why pumpkin seeds will be covered as a separate topic.
Benefits of Pumpkins
Although pumpkins are heavily linked to the Fall, they possess so many benefits impacting our overall health that they’re actually a great option all year round.
Heart Healthy Food
Pumpkins are filled with potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamin C and fiber, all of which are extremely beneficial for cardiovascular health as they help regulate blood pressure and provide oxygen to red blood cells.
Helpful for Optimal Digestion
Composed of high levels of fiber and water, pumpkin is great for enhancing healthy digestion. Not only does pumpkin help keep you feeling full longer and more energized but it also helps increase nutrient absorption and regular bowel movements.
Immunity Boosting
Since pumpkin contains high levels of vitamin C, it’s no wonder that it helps boost the immune system. This squash is also filled with beta-carotene, the precursor for Vitamin A, which enhances the immune system and helps fight against diseases and infections.
Improves Vision
Beta carotene and vitamin A are also crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight and for helping to prevent diseases such as cataracts macular degeneration.
Enhances Healthy Skin
A combination of vitamins A, C and E in addition to potassium, zinc and antioxidants, help explain why pumpkin is such a powerful food when it comes to skin health. Whether it’s fighting aging, inflammation or redness, pumpkin has everything you need to glow.
Regulates Diabetes
Pumpkin is a great choice for keeping type 2 diabetes in check by helping maintain blood sugar levels and encouraging weight loss.
Cancer Fighting Food
Together, all of the nutrients and antioxidants found in pumpkins can be helpful in providing a natural defense system when combating cancer cells. In particular, studies show that consuming pumpkin can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of prostate, colon and breast cancers.
Whether you’re eating fresh pumpkin, or puree from a can, you really can’t go wrong. What makes pumpkin even better is that not only does it taste great but it’s also low cal and super versatile which is why Katherine has loved cooking and baking with it for years. Whether it’s a sweet or savory meal, pumpkin adds that perfect touch to so many dishes, so make sure to check out some of Katherine’s delicious pumpkin inspired recipes.
Feature image via Pinterest
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