Pumpkin – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Pumpkins are very versatile and it’s not only because they can be used as awesome Halloween props. They can be made into a variety of savory dishes. Pumpkins are technically considered a fruit because of their seeds but are also more like a vegetable when it comes to the nutrient content.

These are a type of winter squash that belong to same family as melons and cucumbers. They are typically round and orange in color; although the size, shape and color can vary depending on the variety. The inside is hollow except for flesh-covered seeds. Pumpkins are thought of as humble backyard vegetables that pack a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

List of known nutrients

• Alpha-Carotene
• Antioxidants
• Beta-Carotene
• Carotenes
• Carotenoids
• Copper
• Diber
• Folate
• Folic acid
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Niacin
• Pantothenic acid
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Riboflavin
• Thiamin
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Zinc

Medicinal uses of pumpkins

Eating three or more servings each day can reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. According to the Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Health Publications, the iron content found in pumpkins can help promote fertility in women.

Since they’re an excellent source of antioxidants, pumpkins are known to effectively prevent diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. They can delay the signs of aging, provide relief against asthma, boost energy, and maintain proper weight.

Pumpkins contain fiber, potassium, and vitamin C that all help to support heart health. These three nutrients lower blood pressure, which reduces your risk of stroke. Regulating blood pressure is great for staving off heart diseases as well. In addition, the antioxidants found in these squashes can delay the signs of aging by protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health’s Department of Nutrition, there’s a significant relationship between a diet that’s rich in beta-carotene and the reduced incidence of prostate cancer. It’s also found to have an inverse association with colon cancer development. Another condition that the vitamin helps prevent is metabolic syndrome — a cluster of symptoms that are associated with abdominal obesity. These symptoms include poor blood pressure, poor blood sugar, and spikes in triglycerides. All these are risk factors of heart disease and diabetes.

Body systems supported by pumpkin

Pumpkins are important for skin health. Beta-carotene, in particular, protects the skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays and keeps it looking and feeling good. Their fiber content is great for the heart as it improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the combination of vitamins and minerals in pumpkins helps protect the eye from macular degeneration.

Ways to enjoy pumpkins

Pumpkins are delicious especially when made into soups or roasted along with vegetables. They make a great creamy curry base as well. Likewise, the add flavor to pancakes, custards, and muffins. If you’re looking for other ways to cook pumpkins, check these out.

Where to learn more

• Pumpkin – a surprising superfood that lightens depression, subdues inflammation and discourages kidney stones
• Pumpkin: The amazing, neglected superfood
• Pumpkin seeds shown to kill cancer cells, fight diabetes
• Pumpkin Seeds – Enjoy this on-the-go snack from nature
• Pumpkin Seeds Kill Cancer Cells, Fight Diabetes And Improve Our Eye Sight

Summary

Pumpkins promote healthy eyesight and prevent macular degeneration.

Pumpkins improve skin health.

Pumpkins prevent cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.

Pumpkins boost the immune system.

Sources include:

AllRecipes.com

Nutrition-and-You.com

AuthorityNutrition.com

MedicalNewsToday.com