Food Focus: Pumpkins
Far more than just for jack-o-lanterns or decorative window displays! Pumpkins are nutritional powerhouses and are super tasty to boot!
A member of the Cucurbita family, which includes squash and cucumbers, pumpkin gets its name from the Greek word “pepon” for large melon. Pumpkins, like all deep orange or red-hued foods, are loaded with beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, and a powerful antioxidant. Research shows that people who eat a diet rich in foods containing beta-carotene are less likely to develop certain cancers. Pumpkins are also great sources of potassium and zine, and are very high in fiber. They are also great sources of fun!
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are nutritional powerhouses as well, and can be beneficial for people with kidney, prostate and gallbladder problems. Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper and essential fatty acids.
Eating as little as 2 ounces of pumpkin seeds provides a solid 10g of protein, and can help elevate low iron levels. Eating pumpkin, or other gourd seeds, can promote a calm state and more restful sleep thanks to the amino acid tryptophan. Our bodies use tryptophan to manufacture serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical.
So when you’re feeling stressed out, or too anxious to get good rest, try incorporating more pepitas and more pumpkin into your life!
Tags: food focus
