The Health Benefits of Pumpkin

As Fall approaches we all love to venture to our favorite farm to pick out the perfect pumpkin! Most of us view pumpkins as a colorful and seasonal decoration during the Fall holiday season but what we don’t know is that there is a lot more to pumpkins than just a vibrant orange color. As you’re preparing your mouth-watering pumpkin dishes this month, here’s a little input to the health benefits within this delicious squash.

Vitamin A

The skin contains beta-carotene, a provitamin that our body converts into Vitamin A. 1 cup of pumpkin provides almost triple your recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Vitamin A is an essential daily vitamin needed to support good vision, bone growth, immunity support and aids in healthy flawless skin.

The Seeds

As you’re carving out your Jack-O-Lantern, don’t be so quick to throw out those seeds! Pumpkin seeds are rich in iron, fiber, magnesium, protein and zinc. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which we need to fight off and prevent inflammation. In addition, the seeds contain the essential amino acid, tryptophan. Your body uses this essential amino acid to build proteins, vitamin B3 (niacin) and the neurotransmitters serotonin and melatonin which enhance relaxation and minimize stress.

Builds Immunity

We know that the orange color is responsible for containing beta-carotene (vitamin A) found in the skin. Leaving this apparent that this fruit is packed with powerful anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants are the phytochemicals that are needed to ward off any harmful bacteria (germs) and help keep your immune system in its best shape!

Keeps Your Skin Flawless and Glowing

The fruit is rich in natural enzymes that help keep our skin glowing and looking flawless. The fruit is generously hydrating and soothing which will leave your skin looking healthy and youthful. If you don’t love the flavor or taste of pumpkin, that’s OK! Your skin can still get these benefits by mashing this fruit and applying it to your skin as a facial mask.

As we enter this Thanksgiving Holiday, try to add pumpkin into your diet by adding cut chunks to your roasted vegetables, baking the seeds for a healthy afternoon snack or salad topping and/or pureeing the pumpkin to utilize as a favorite spread or in your favorite pumpkin dishes!

Cheers to a happy and healthy holiday season!