Whether in soup or gratin, Pumpkin is one of the foods often eaten when winter approaches. In addition to being tasty for our taste buds, they have excellent health benefits. It is supernutritious and very low in calories yet naturally sweet. Thus, there are a lot of good reasons to add it to your meals.

Although part of the squash species, pumpkin is generally considered a vegetable. There are several varieties of pumpkin and squash more generally, and sometimes the differences between each one may not seem very clear.

Let's discuss the health benefits of Pumpkin, highlighting its properties and the nutrients it contains:

Nutritional Information

Pumpkin is a very nutritious food, and it contains very few calories per serving. Indeed, there are only 20 calories in 100 grams of Pumpkin. In addition, it is rich in vitamin C and E and contains potassium, copper, manganese, riboflavin and iron.

It also contains a lot of beta-carotene, a very powerful antioxidant. Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that is converted into vitamin A in the body.

Benefits of Pumpkin

Strengthens the Immune System: Antioxidant Properties

During the winter season, consuming pumpkins helps protect against many viruses. Thanks to its oxidizing nutrients, pumpkin helps strengthen the immune system.

The orange color of pumpkins comes from their richness in carotenoids, beta-carotene being the most prominent, which helps the body produce vitamin A. With its oxidizing effect, it strengthens the immune system and protects it against winter illnesses. Another advantage of this production of vitamin A is that it improves and reduces aging of the vision.

The combination of minerals and vitamins found in Pumpkin could protect the eyes against age-related macular degeneration. Pumpkin's other nutrients also support immune function, including vitamins C and E, iron, and folate.

Maintains Blood Pressure

The pumpkin holds a high amount of potassium, which has a positive impact on arterial health. To reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the properties of pumpkin seeds appear to be effective. Pumpkin seeds tincture is also available, which is an effective alternative to consuming seeds directly.

Fights Against Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is the association of a series of health problems related to abdominal obesity. These include high blood pressure, blood sugar problems, and high triglyceride levels - all factors that increase your risk for heart disease and diabetes. However, the consumption of foods rich in beta-carotene seems to decrease the risk of metabolic syndrome.

An Effective Anti-inflammatory

With their anti-inflammatory action, pumpkin seeds help calm disorders of the urinary and digestive tracts. If a person has a UTI, consuming pumpkin seeds can help calm and relieve the inflammation.

Effective in Constipation-Rich in Fiber

If a person is prone to regular constipation, eating pumpkins can help them feel better. Pumpkin flesh is rich in iron and has a deconstructing action. Since it is very digestible, pumpkin is sometimes recommended for patients with kidney or intestinal diseases.

Fights Anemia

With their high iron content, pumpkin seeds also have health benefits. These can fight against anemia (iron deficiency) and fatigue. Snacking on squash seeds can also relieve stress and anxiety.

Good for the Skin

The antioxidants in Pumpkin are essential for the health of your skin, including beta-carotene and vitamins C and E. In particular, evidence suggests that beta-carotene can protect the skin against harmful UV rays from the sun. Thus, eating foods rich in beta-carotene, such as pumpkin, can improve the texture and appearance of your skin.

Now that you know the numerous health benefits of pumpkin, you'll surely make it a part of your daily intake. Do not forget to share this information with your family and friends.