Health Benefits of Pumpkins!

Health Benefits of Pumpkins!

 

Benny the Pumpkin

Benny the Pumpkin

 

In light of this year’s early pumpkin harvest due to the extra-long and warm summer, I thought I would write a quick post on their health benefits.  I hope you get a chance to partake in this tasty and nutritious squash this fall!

 

 

Cancer Prevention & Skin Health

The beta-carotene content in pumpkins can fight cancer and protects the skin (such as against wrinkles) – it’s also what makes them orange! 😉

 

 

Heart Health

Snack on a few pumpkin seeds for a boost to your heart.  This little guys reduce bad cholesterol, and have good fats that are beneficial to your heart.

 

 

Mood & Relaxation

Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, helping to elevate your mood and get you a good night’s sleep.

 

 

General Health

The seeds provide the important elements iron, selenium, niacin, and zinc, but no cholesterol.  They also have lots of fiber & protein, making them an all-around good snack, perfect for on-the-go if you’re in a rush or as a movie night treat!

 

 

Muscle Function

Pumpkin is a great source of potassium – 1 cup of cooked pumpkin reportedly has more potassium than a banana.  This is great for muscle restoration after a workout or overall health and detoxification and is an important element to support a healthy and properly working body.

 

 

Cancer Prevention

Pumpkins are rich in an essential vitamin with cancer-fighting properties – namely, vitamin A.

 

 

Sight

Vitamin A also helps your sight, and zea-xanthin, another antioxidant found in pumpkin, fights age-related macular disease (ARMD) by helping filter UV light in the retina.

 

 

Immune System

Like so many great fruits and veggies, pumpkins have lots of vitamin C to support good immune function and fight colds and infections.

 

 

 

So whether you enjoy your pumpkin in a latte, frappuccino, soup or pie, don’t forget to savour the amazingness of this festive fall fruit!

 

Best wishes to you as the colourful season approaches!

🙂 SCK

 

 

 

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Sources:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/04/pumpkin-health-benefits_n_1936919.html

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pumpkin.html