Think that pumpkins are just for carving? Heck no! Pumpkin is not only a sign of this Halloween season, but it’s also extremely nutritious and healthy! Here are a few facts about this fall fruit:
- Pumpkins are high in potassium, magnesium, panthothenic acid, beta carotene and other antioxidants with properties that can help improve immune function and reduce the risk for chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
- Pumpkins are high in fiber.
- One cup of fresh pumpkin has just 50 calories, while one cup of canned has 80 calories.
- Pumpkin seeds contain essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and are an excellent plant-based source of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Pumpkin seed oil is touted by many for its health properties, as it includes 60 to 90 percent unsaturated fats and is high in linoleic acid.
Read more about why pumpkin is a healthy pick, along with tasty recipes to include this nutritional power house in your diet! What’s your favorite way to include pumpkin in your diet?