I think it's safe to safe that we're all reminded of one thing when it comes to Fall—pumpkins! Whether it be pumpkin carving, a warm pumpkin drink, or pumpkin pie, the sweet Fall fruit is most likely floating through all of our minds. Now, pumpkin isn't just a delicious flavor we add to our diets during this festive time of the year. It's also an amazing superfood when correctly incorporated into one's diet. Below are just a few of the awesome benefits that eating pumpkin can bring to you.
1. High in Vitamin A
Pumpkin is a very good source of Vitamin A. But how does this help you? Vitamin A is essential for bone growth, healthy vision, flawless skin, and a functioning immune system!
2. Makes You Feel More Full
One cup of pure pumpkin contains three grams of fiber and only 50 calories! High fiber means slower digestion which makes you feel more full. A good way to gain perspective on how valuable this is is by comparing it to bread. One slice of whole wheat bread also contains three grams of fiber; however, this slice also contains a whopping 128 calories. See what I mean? Forgetting about the calorie count, high-fiber foods aid in maintaining a happy and healthy heart!
3. Loaded With Phytoestrogens
You may be wondering, what are phytoestrogens? Well, to put it simply, they are plant-based hormones. Though various studies provide controversy over the effects of phytoestrogens, they have been proven to fight some forms of cancer, enhance heart health, balance body hormones during menopause, aid with weight loss, and boost libido! That sure is a lot of effects from one [natural] hormone.
4. Aids In Rest And Relaxation
Pumpkin contains the amino acid, tryptophan. This is the same compound found in turkey that is known to have the post-Thanksgiving-dinner-sleepiness effect. To explain: tryptophan creates serotonin, which is a feel-good neurotransmitter that promotes one to relax and unwind. In other words, pumpkin helps us to mellow out. Thanks, pumpkin!
5. Acts As A Body Balancer
Similar to bananas, pumpkin contains high levels of potassium. Potassium is a chemical element that helps to restore balance of electrolytes after an intense workout. So, say goodbye to those sugar-packed energy drinks and hello to a delicious post-workout pumpkin-filled dinner!
6. Keeps You Hydrated
90 percent of pumpkins are made up of water! You know what that means, they help you quench your thirst.
After reading this list of how eating pure pumpkin benefits you, I wouldn't be surprised if you're ready to run out the door and buy a boatload of them! Seriously, how can something so delicious be so good for us?! It is a true blessing, I have to say. However, remember that merely pumpkin-flavored items (such as a pumpkin-spiced coffee) do not reap the same benefits as pure pumpkin. Below are a few ways you can incorporate pure pumpkin into your regular diet. Let's get cooking!
- Add chunks of pumpkin to roasted vegetable medleys
- Add pumpkin seeds to your meals
- Have roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack
- Add chunks of pumpkin to your smoothies or shakes
- Make a pumpkin pie
- Make pumpkin ravioli (YUM!)
- Make pumpkin soup
- Make a pumpkin sauce to top dishes with
- Use pumpkin as a replacement for butter or oil
