Is pumpkin a superfood?

Halloween is coming and as you’re carving your pumpkin take time to learn about the health benefits of this popular food.

Pumpkins really are a superfood! While they might not ward of ghosts and ghouls, they can certainly ward off nasty bugs!

Packed with antioxidants and iron, calcium, zinc and potassium, eating pumpkin flesh and the seeds can be part of a healthy diet.

HAIR AND NAILS

Pumpkin seeds are full of iron and calcium which are vital for healthy hair and nails

EYES

Beta carotenes in the flesh convert to retinol that helps the eyes adjust to light-changes. It also contains lutein which helps protect against cataracts.

BONES AND TEETH

Both the flesh and seeds of pumpkin contain zinc which helps build strong bones and has anti inflammatory properties. They are also rich in calcium and magnesium.

HEART AND BLOOD

Pumpkin flesh is high in potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and heart function. It also contains a healthy fat that promotes HDL (good cholesterol) which protects against heart attack and lowers levels of LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol).

IMMUNE SYSTEM

Pumpkins are full of beta carotenes that can be converted to Vitamin A, which helps the immune system fight infections.

SKIN

High levels of vitamin E, an antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on skin is found in the flesh. Vitamin A helps to keep the skin moist and act as a barrier to bacteria while vitamin C promotes collagen production.