All You Need to Know About Pumpkin Nutrition

Pumpkins are a great source of nutrition. These orange wonders are full of beta-carotene like all orange fruit and vegetables. It is also a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and fiber. Pumpkin seeds and the oil pressed from them are full of zinc and unsaturated fatty acids... the ones we need to stay healthy.

For the calories you are consuming, pumpkin gives you a lot of nutrition. Even if you ate it for fiber alone, it is known to fill you up so you can naturally curb your appetite without harmful pharmaceuticals. Fiber is also good for your bowels. This squash is also full of potassium.

We all need iron to help our red blood cells oxygenate our bodies. Pumpkin will give you what you need! In addition, the zinc will help prevent osteoporosis. Did you know it can affect the hips as well as the spine? Zinc is also beneficial to your reproductive system... especially if you are trying for a baby.

Pumpkins contain lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds help neutralize free radicals in the lenses of the eyes. They help protect you from cataracts and macular degeneration. Are you convinced yet? This lowly garden vegetable can help your eyes, your bones, your weight, and your reproductive system. It can protect your skin from damage and it does all of this while it tastes fantastic. How many vegetables are good for you and also make a terrific dessert?

There are many ways to add more pumpkin to your menu. You could learn how to make pumpkin soup. Soup is a great way to enjoy the flavor of pumpkin and get the most out of its nutrients. You can make a rich soup for special occasions, or you can make a low calorie soup if you are watching your weight. This simple, rustic food can easily be elevated to the status of fine dining.

By adding pumpkin to your diet, you not only add all these fabulous nutrients that your body needs to stay well and thrive, you are making the choice to add a good food to your diet that is mostly overlooked in this country. Instead of regulating pumpkins to the celebration of Halloween and the occasional pie during the holidays, pumpkin should be allowed to take its place in the culinary world and shine.

One of pumpkin's best attributes is its versatility. It lends itself to both sweet and savory dishes with ease. You can add pumpkin to your meals several times per month using various dishes and you will never get tired of it. This vegetable deserves a higher placing at our table than to be used as a bowl. Try some pumpkin soup, pumpkin pancakes, or pumpkin bread.

Once you have added more pumpkin into your diet, you will be amazed how you ever did without its rich flavor. You will realize that you are feeling better, looking better and that you are healthier. Pumpkin can help you avoid major health issues and help you lose weight. Not bad for something that most people think of as a decoration!