Pump Up Your Health with Pumpkin

by The Well Daily
October 19, 2011

Nothing says harvest time like a bright orange pumpkin. And while pumpkins make great jack-o-lanterns, they're good for a whole lot more, especially when it comes to your health. Why eat more pumpkin this fall?

A + B = Healthy Eyes and Skin. Pumpkins are rich in the antioxidants alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A to promote healthy vision and a strong immune system. Beta-carotene, responsible for the pumpkin’s rich orange color, also acts as an anti-inflammatory and protects skin from the damaging effects of sun. 

Try this: Use pureed pumpkin, fresh or canned, to make an at-home face mask to brighten the complexion. Combine a couple of tablespoons of pumpkin with equal parts honey and milk. For oily skin, add a splash of apple cider vinegar. Smooth over face and neck, leave for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off.

Strong Bones, Healthy Body. Pumpkins also boast vitamins C, E and B5, as well as potassium, magnesium and fiber. Collectively, these nutrients strengthen the heart, lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of certain cancers, strengthen bones, promote weight loss and manage stress. Now is definitely the season to fall in love with this healthy fruit.

Try this: Fresh or canned pumpkin makes a creamy base for soups and smoothies. Keep it simple and blend a frozen banana with 3/4 cup canned or fresh chilled pumpkin, 1 cup milk or nut milk and a dash of ground nutmeg, cinnamon and clove for a seasonal smoothie.

Peak Protein and Prostate Health. Instead of tossing those pumpkin seeds into the trash, take advantage of them as a rich source of protein and nutrients like iron, magnesium, vitamin E and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Pumpkin seeds also promote prostate and bone health in men.

Try this: Wash the pulp off the seeds of your pumpkin and lay them out to dry overnight. Brush them with olive oil, then salt and roast them for a tasty snack or a crunchy salad topper. You can also buy them in bulk year-round.

Support Weight Loss and Digestion. Pumpkin is naturally low in fat and high in fiber, both of which are key if you're trying to lose weight.

Try this: Pumpkin’s consistency makes it a good replacement for eggs in baked goods like cookies, muffins or breads. Substitute 1/4 cup per egg and make sure the pumpkin flavor will complement the recipe.