Health Benefits Of Pumpkin
1. Boosts Eyesight Health
Pumpkins contain vitamin A which has been shown to help vision, particularly in low light situations. In fact, 1 cup of mashed pumpkin contains and impressive 200% RDA vitamin A! Like the other orange coloured veggies, pumpkins contain carotenoids like beta carotene which also helps keep eyesight sharp.
2. Boosts Weight Loss
As mentioned earlier, pumpkins are high in fiber. Each cup of pumpkin contains only 49 calories and 3 grams of fiber. Fiber assists with the digestive processes in the body as well as keep us feeling full longer which may help prevent over eating and snacking.
3. Boosts The Body's Ability To Combat Sun Damage
Beta Carotene and other carotenoids found in pumpkins help keep skin hydrated and minimizes wrinkles. The anti oxidants found in pumpkins may help protect against sun damage by neutralizing free radicals.
4. Boosts The Body's Ability To Resist Certain Cancers
The anti oxidants found in orange vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash and pumpkins help fight inflammation at the cellular level. The plant sterols and beta carotene have been shown to aid in the cancer prevention
5. Boosts The Body's Ability To Recover From Workouts
One cup of pumpkin contains more than 564 mg of potassium. A banana contains 422 mg. Potassium is used to help restore the body's electrolytes balance. Pumpkin also helps prevent cramping in the muscles.
6. Boosts Your Immune System
Vitamin C found in pumpkins has been shown to help strengthen the immune system. One cup of pumpkin contains more than 11 mg vitamin C.
Pumpkins are an excellent side dish for just about any meal. It can be served like any other squash or sweet potato. Most of us are familiar with pumpkin and pumpkin flavouring being added to our lattes, coffee, muffins and of course one of my favourites... pumpkin pie! Many of the health benefits may be negated by adding sugars and processing during food preps. The best way, in my opinion is to bake (or boil) pumpkin and serve. Often the best way to preserve a food's nutrient value is to alter it as little as possible and add few extra ingredients! So, with the Halloween season upon us, pumpkins are in season and abundant. Why not consider adding this pumpkin treat to your diet and reap the health benefits?