Health Benefits of Pumpkins!
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. Â 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. Â 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. Â 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