Pumpkin is a universal superfood for health. It is one of the healthiest foods that can be used both in cooking and cosmetology. Its brightly colored flesh is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making pumpkin a valuable part of a healthy diet. If you want to use pumpkin not only for Halloween, and fully know its useful properties, read this article.
The main health benefits of pumpkin
Scientists have come to the conclusion that the benefits of pumpkin are multifaceted. Here are just some of its benefits and its effect on humans:
- A rich source of vitamins and minerals. Pumpkin contains a huge amount of vitamins including A, C, E and B vitamins, as well as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc. This rich composition contributes to the health of various body systems.
- Weight loss. Pumpkin’s low calorie content (about 26 calories per 100 grams) makes it an ideal diet food. Its high nutritional value and fiber provide a feeling of satiety, which helps avoid overeating.
- Immunity boosting. Pumpkin’s high vitamin C and antioxidant content helps strengthen the immune system, protecting the body from viruses and bacteria.
- Maintaining healthy eyesight. Vitamin A (beta-carotene), which pumpkin is rich in, is vital for maintaining eye health. It helps improve vision in low-light conditions and prevents age-related eye diseases.
- Heart benefits. The potassium, magnesium and fiber in pumpkin support cardiovascular health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, and fiber reduces bad cholesterol.
- Digestive Support. Pumpkin is a great source of fiber, which improves intestinal peristalsis, promotes gentle cleansing and helps manage constipation. If you haven’t been able to go to the bathroom for a long time, make sure you cook yourself some pumpkin.
- Antioxidant Defense. Pumpkin contains powerful antioxidants, including carotenoids, which help fight inflammation, slow cell aging, and protect the body from free radicals.
- Skin Improvement. The vitamin E and beta-carotene in pumpkin help keep your skin healthy by helping to moisturize, improve texture, and protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. Why splurge on cosmetics? Eat more pumpkin!
- Nervous system benefits. The magnesium and B vitamins in pumpkin support the normal functioning of the nervous system, help to cope with stress, improve mood and promote good sleep.
Benefits of pumpkin seeds
Not only the pulp, but also the seeds of pumpkin have beneficial properties. They are rich in zinc, which strengthens the immune system and keeps skin and hair healthy. The seeds also contain healthy fatty acids that promote heart and brain function.
How to use pumpkin in your diet
Pumpkin is versatile in cooking. It can be baked, stewed, added to soups, porridge and pies. Pumpkin puree is a great base for desserts. Pumpkin juice and smoothies saturate the body with vitamins. The seeds are dried and eaten as snacks.
Who should be careful
Although pumpkin is safe for most people, excessive consumption of it can lead to digestive problems due to its high fiber content. People with diabetes should use caution because of its glycemic index. By following these tips you can protect yourself from harm so that pumpkin will only do you good.
Here are some interesting facts about pumpkin, from which you can see the benefits of the vegetable:
- Pumpkin is one of the oldest cultivated plants. It was cultivated in Central America about 7,500 years ago, long before corn and beans.
- Not a vegetable, but a berry. Botanically, pumpkin is considered a berry because it has a soft flesh and many seeds protected by a hard rind.
- Record size. The largest pumpkin in the world weighed 1,226 kilograms! This record was set in Italy in 2021.
- Pumpkin Holidays. In the United States, the pumpkin is a symbol of fall and Halloween. Every year in October, pumpkin festivals are held, where they organize contests for the largest fruit, culinary competitions and even “pumpkin races”.
- It’s not just the pulp that is eaten. Pumpkin seeds are also very nutritious. They contain zinc, magnesium and healthy fats, and pumpkin seed oil is considered a delicacy.
- Cooking flexibility. Pumpkin can be used to make soups, pies, breads, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and even drinks such as the famous “pumpkin latte”.
- Not just food. In ancient times, pumpkin was used to make utensils such as bowls and bowls.
- Symbol of fertility. In different cultures, pumpkin is considered a symbol of wealth and fertility. In Chinese culture, the gourd is associated with longevity and good luck.
- Impressive variety. There are more than 45 species of pumpkin, including ornamental varieties that are grown for their unusual shape and color.
- Pumpkin as transportation. During festivals, there are “pumpkin races” where participants hollow out giant fruits and use them instead of boats for races.
- In the service of man. The pumpkin helps cleanse the soil of toxins, as it can absorb heavy metals such as lead.
- Origin of the name. The word “pumpkin” comes from the Greek word pepon, which means “big melon”.
- Long-term storage. A ripe pumpkin can be stored in a cool place for up to 6 months without losing its beneficial properties.
- Halloween decoration. The tradition of carving Jack’s lights out of pumpkins originated in the United States, although originally turnips were used for this purpose in Ireland.
Pumpkin is a real superfood that deserves a place in everyone’s diet. Not only does it saturate the body with nutrients, but it also helps keep the cardiovascular, digestive, nervous system and skin healthy. By including pumpkin in your menu, you will not only enjoy its flavor, but also a powerful boost of energy and health benefits!
To learn about the benefits of other products, go to the Benefits food page.