For many of us, the pure sight of a pumpkin is enough to elicit feelings of joy and nostalgia. Pumpkins have served as a popular fall decoration and great fall-themed activity for us parents and grandparents who help carve them.
Pumpkins popping up on porches and the menus of neighborhood eateries is a sure-tell sign of Fall!
On your porch, in a latte, as a dessert, or on the dinner plate …pumpkins are sure to please.
Did you know that pumpkins are pretty darn nutritious as well?!?
A member of the squash family, pumpkins are native to North America. As décor, they serve as a fall gourd, but as food, pumpkins are low-calorie and packed with nutrients. Both flesh and seeds are edible. Like tomatoes or zucchini, you can consider pumpkin in the fruit category. As a bonus, they are also a food that is water-dense.
Pumpkins provide a great source of phytochemicals (good chemicals). Research studies have associated phytochemical consumption with decreased risk of several chronic diseases, in part, due to their antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects.
Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids (beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein) as well as phenolic acids and flavonoids. Your body converts carotenoids into vitamin A. They also contain potassium and vitamin C. Also, they are rich in soluble fiber, which may help manage chronic health conditions like type II diabetes.
The seeds from pumpkins are both low-calorie and a great source of healthy fat and minerals, such as magnesium and zinc. They also provide an antioxidant kick and may support heart, prostate, and bladder health.
Ultimately, pumpkins are fun and great for your health!
All this talk about pumpkins, we just have to mention our new Pumpkin Spice Mousse. It’s our newest addition to our Gluten-Free, Keto, and Diabetic-Friendly desserts. It’s Super Yum. Get yours today!
