Pumpkin Nutrition and Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Normally people do not consider pumpkin as a health food. But this is wrong. If we look at the pumpkin’s nutritional profile we can find that this vegetable contains lots of important nutrients. It’s a powerhouse of vitamins and a low fat food. Pumpkin seeds are great for the overall health and especially a great food for cardiovascular health. Pumpkin is tasty and can be used in various dishes to make a healthy and delicious meal. Pumpkin, like cantaloupe and cucumber, belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is the fruit of the species Cucurbita pepo. United State is the biggest commercial producer of the pumpkin.

Pumpkin Nutrition 

Pumpkin is excellent source of beta-carotene which is a precursor of Vitamin A. It’s just like other orange color fruits and vegetables, contains loads of carotenoids, which are potent antioxidants and great for fighting free radicals. Pumpkin is also a high dietary fiber food and it contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. It’s a very good source of potassium, zinc and magnesium. Pumpkin seeds are great sources of phosphorous. Pumpkin contains high amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin E as well. Both of these vitamins are known for their antioxidant properties. Two flavonoids lutein and zeaxanthin can also be found in pumpkin. Besides, this vegetable is rich in B vitamins such as niacin, thiamin, folate and pyridoxine.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Carotenoids content of pumpkin makes it a great food for overall health. Their antioxidant properties help to fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. These carotenoids compounds are very good for cardiovascular health and protect from various cancers. These are very good for the eye health and immune system as well. Zeaxanthin and lutein contents in pumpkin are very good for lowering the chances of cataract and macular degeneration.

Pumpkin is very good food for osteoporosis too. Mineral such as zinc is very good for reducing the chances of osteoporosis. Fiber is very good for the immune system and bowel health. Iron is helpful in the creation of red blood cells.

Another major advantage of pumpkin is it manages to reduce blood cholesterol levels. Pumpkin oil contains EFAs (Essential fatty acids), which are essential for healthy blood vessels and nerves and also helps to reduce the cholesterol levels.

Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin oil have anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why they are very good for arthritics pains and muscular cramps. Pumpkin oil is also good for relieving stress and works well against insomnia.

In addition, pumpkin is known for its preventive abilities against prostate cancer. Pumpkin seeds are very good in the prevention of kidney stones. Phytosterols in pumpkin prevents several types of cancers. It’s a good diuretic and helps to flush out waste from the body. Pumpkin juice is very good for the health as it prevents and treats gallbladder problems, cleanses liver and promotes urinary health system. Pumpkin juice is good for the digestive system and helpful in the treatment of constipation.

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/pumpkin-recipes-packed-nutrition
https://web.extension.illinois.edu/pumpkins/