Pumpkin: The Health Benefits of This Superfood
It is generally considered a vegetable, but pumpkin is actually a fruit and a savory food that is full of health benefits plugged. That Superfood can have a positive impact on that, among other things Herzdie Eyes and the immune system affect.
The nutritionist Julia Zumpano lists in a current contribution the renowned Cleveland Clinic (USA) some of the well-known health benefits of consuming pumpkin on:
Great for the eyes
“Pumpkin is high in vitamin A, which is really great for your eyesight and boosts your immune system”, says Zumpano. Just a single serving (regarding a cup) of pumpkin can provide over 200 percent of the recommended daily allowance Vitamin A deliver.
It also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, compounds that protect your eyes from age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Healthy for your heart
“Squash is high in potassium, which is an important ingredient for heart health”, according to the nutritionist. A cup of pumpkin contains 16 percent of the recommended daily amount Potassium. And squash also contains heart-healthy vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that may help prevent heart disease.
Strengthens your immune system
A serving of pumpkin provides 19 percent of the recommended daily allowance Vitamin C, an immune booster that helps reduce cell damage from free radicals (unstable molecules that can bind to your cells). Also other immune boosters antioxidantsincluding vitamin A, vitamin E and iron, are contained in the pumpkin.
Contains cancer-fighting carotenoids
“Carotenoids are plant pigments produced by yellow, orange and red plants such as squash, carrots, zucchini and tomatoes”explains Zumpano. carotenoids fight the effects of free radicals in your body and may help protect once morest certain types of cancer.
Keeps you full
If you’re watching your weight, pumpkin is a good choice. “It’s only 50 calories per cup and it’s filling too”, remarks Zumpano. The same serving also provides three grams of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full for longer.
Contains healthy seeds
throw pumpkin seeds not away! Once you’ve separated them from the remaining sticky squash innards, you can clean, season and roast them for a nutritious snack.
Health benefits of pumpkin seeds include a reduced cancer riskimproved gut and prostate health, and reduced risk of heart disease.
“They make for a tasty, high-protein snack that’s easy to take with you”, according to Zumpano. Add them to a salad, oatmeal, homemade granola, or over yogurt for a little crunch.
Versatile
There are numerous on the internet Pumpkin Recipes to find. Zumpano has some recommendations:
- if garnish Roast the pumpkin in the oven.
- Stir in mashed or canned squash The soup or sauces to thicken them.
- Replace Fett or oil in breads, muffins, and pancakes through pumpkin.
- Add pumpkin to plain or vanilla yogurt with some pumpkin spice and just a touch of honey.
- Mix pumpkin into one Smoothie or turn it into a healthy pudding.
Fresh pumpkins are only in season in autumn, but they are Pumpkin Preserves and frozen goods make it easy to enjoy the tasty and healthy fruit all year round. (ad)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- Cleveland Clinic: The Health Benefits of Pumpkin, (Abruf: 07.06.2022), Cleveland Clinic
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
