Pumpkin Nutrition in a Nutshell
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.
Calorie for calorie, pumpkins pack in a lot of nutrition. The fiber in this seasonal food will also temper your appetite so you do not overeat. Fiber is also good for the health of your bowels. Potassium, another important nutrient, is abundant in pumpkins.
In order to carry oxygen to your cells, your red blood cells use iron. Pumpkins help supply your daily-recommended requirement of this important mineral. Zinc will help prevent osteoporosis, a degenerative condition of the spine and hips. This mineral is also important in maintaining the health of your reproductive system, especially in maintaining fertility and sperm motility.
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?
Want more ways to add this food to your menu? Maybe you are looking for a recipe for pumpkin soup. This easy meal can be made with fresh or canned pumpkin. Both versions are healthy and provide many of the nutrients your body needs. Soup can be made so it is low in calories, or you can add cream and other luscious ingredients to make it truly elegant. Who knew this rustic vegetable could offer so much?
Add pumpkin to your diet and see if you do not feel a difference. It is really a shame that this amazing food is under appreciated and overlooked in this country. Pumpkins should shine all year round, not just at Halloween and during the holidays as a simple dessert. It should be in a place of honor in the culinary world.
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!
Curried pumpkin soup is a wonderful rich, spicy soup to serve as an appetizer or as a main dish. Serve this dish when you want to impress your guests. Garnish it with a dollop of sour cream right in the center of each bowl. The flavors blend together extremely well.
Mail this post
