When most people think of pumpkins it reminded them of Halloween however, apart from being decorated during Halloween pumpkins are a storehouse of vitamins, mineral and other healthy nutrients.
Whether it is the pulp or the seeds, pumpkins are great for your health and can offer some incredible benefits.
Pumpkins owe their bright Orange color to the high amount of carotenoids present in them. Carotenoids aids in staving off the free radicals in the body, and help to prevent premature aging, cardiovascular diseases and other infections.
They are also high in Lutein and Zeaxanthin which protect the eyes against free radical damage and prevent formation of cataracts and degeneration of the eye tissues.
The seeds in Pumpkin are known as Pepitas they are a rich source of protein. One ounce of pumpkin seeds contains approximately 7 grams of protein.
Their oil is high in phytosterols or plant-based fatty acids and their chemical composition are the same as cholesterol. Phytosterols can replace cholesterol in the body, and help in reducing the blood cholesterol levels.
Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits. From providing protection against serious health diseases such as high blood pressure, arthritis and cancer to promoting healthy skin and improving brain power, essential fatty acids present in pumpkin oil offer several health benefits.
Pumpkins are a rich source of Vitamin A. Regular consumption of pumpkin (both seeds and flesh) can promote the health of your eyes and boost your immune system remarkably.
Vitamin C found in pumpkins helps fight free radicals, improves immunity and promotes the production of collagen. Because there is high Vitamin C content in pumpkins it also offers protection against various forms of cancer.
Both the pulp and seeds of pumpkin are rich in magnesium, which is an important mineral required for various biological functions. Magnesium is also required for the maintenance of bones and teeth.
Pumpkin flesh is very low in calories and contains abundant quantities of extremely good dietary fiber.
The alpha-carotene and beta-carotene are potent antioxidants found in pumpkin and are pro-vitamin A carotenoids, meaning the body converts them to vitamin A.
Vitamin A promotes healthy vision and ensures proper immune function. The beta-carotene in pumpkin may also reverse skin damage caused by the sun and act as an anti-inflammatory