A pumpkin is not just for Halloween, it’s for long term health! Don’t be fooled by its spooky reputation – it’s actually one of the most nutritious fruits available.
The pumpkin is a large orange fruit harvested in October. Traditionally it is used to make soup, pie and breads, however it is being increasingly used as a holiday decoration for Halloween. The tradition of a carving pumpkin and adding a candle to make a ‘jack-o’-lantern’ originated hundreds of years ago in Ireland and has been popularised by American culture.
This versatile plant has a lot more to offer than a seasonal lantern, it features flowers, seeds and flesh that are high in fiber and a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin B, potassium, protein, and iron. Here are some surprising facts about the health benefits of pumpkins :-
Weight loss – Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which slows digestion, keeping you feeling fuller longer.
Eye Health – Pumpkin’s brilliant orange colouring comes from its supply of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for eye health and helps the retina absorb and process light.
Skin Health – The beta-carotene in pumpkin helps protect us from the sun’s UV rays, which cause wrinkles and the pulp also makes a great, all-natural exfoliating face mask.
Prevent Cancer – Research shows people who eat a beta-carotene-rich diet may have a lower risk of some types of cancer, including prostate and lung cancer.
Boosts immune system – Pumpkins have a high level of vitamin A , which help the body to body fight bacterial and fungal infections.
Diabetes – Animal studies suggest that pumpkin seeds may help improve insulin regulation and help prevent diabetic complications by decreasing oxidative stress.
Sleep – Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid that your body converts into serotonin, which in turn is converted into melatonin, the “sleep hormone.”
The pumpkin makes staying healthy seems a lot less scary!
