Pumpkins: A Seasonal Super Food

So lets talk about pumpkins… we often think of them just as a decoration we use in the fall or maybe the ingredient in some traditional fall desserts but did you know that health benefits of pumpkin is numerous? They contain many essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies benefit from. Lets talk about some ways that pumpkins, and their seeds, are great for you!

1. Healthy heart- Pumpkins contain fiber, vitamins, and potassium, all of which can contribute to a healthy heart. A diet high in GOOD fiber, like fruits in vegetables, can lower the risk of coronary heart disease. Also Pumpkin seeds increase the levels of nitric acid in our bodies. Nitric acid relaxes the inner muscles of the blood vessels and widens them and increase the blood flow and circulation. Fiber can also lead to a healthy weight and help with weight loss. Pumpkin fiber is a great way to keep our digestion systems running smoothly.

2. Immune system support- Pumpkins, and their seeds, are one of the best sources of magnesium and boosts Vitamin C levels. Magnesium contributes to more than 300 biochemical reactions within in our bodies, including the function of our immune systems. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is used by white blood cells to combat infections in our body. This vitamin can also help to shorten the duration of colds. So stock up on that vitamin C. The seeds also contain proteins that are anti-viral and antimicrobial.

3. Vision, bones, skin, and teeth- Pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene, this pigment gives the pumpkin its color. When we consume beta-carotene it turns into vitamin A in our systems. Vitamin A has been found to support good vision and slow the progress of some eye diseases.

4. Sleep better- consuming pumpkins seeds can contribute to sleepiness. The seeds are rich in tryptophan, the same amino acid that is found in turkey and is responsible for that post-thanksgiving nap.

There are many other great benefits to adding pumpkin to your daily diet! Here are a few suggestions to get started. Add it to morning smoothies, roast the seeds for an afternoon snack, or include diced pumpkin in your favorite vegetable medley.

This post is for general information and is not intended to diagnose or treat any illness. Seek professional medical advice when it comes to any physical, mental, or emotional issue.