Adding Pumpkin to Your Diet Will Raise Your Nutrition

By Ken Kudra

Did you know that pumpkins are really nutritious? You may be surprised to learn that these orange harbingers of fall are plumb full of beta-carotene, just like other red, orange, and yellow fruits and vegetables. Pumpkins are also a great source of calcium, vitamin C, and fiber. The seeds and the oil made from them are good sources of zinc and the unsaturated fatty acids that we need to maintain our health.

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?

When you add more of this healthy food to your diet, it does not matter if you use a canned pumpkin soup recipe or use fresh pumpkin. Both are healthy and full of nutrients your body needs to remain healthy. Pumpkin soup can be prepared so it is low in calories or you can make it rich in cream and other luxurious ingredients. It is a simple food that is elegant and rustic all at the same time.

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! - 30241

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