We carve them around at this time of year and munch on their seeds, but what you may not know about fall’s signature squash is that they have health benefits, too!
Pumpkins Keep Eyesight Sharp
A cup of cooked, mashed pumpkin contains more than 200 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A, which aids vision, particularly in dim light, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Pumpkins May Reduce Cancer Risk
Pumpkins boast the antioxidant beta-carotene, which may play a role in cancer prevention, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Pumpkins Help Your Waistline
Pumpkin is an often-overlooked source of fiber, but with 3 grams per one-cup serving and only 49 calories, it can keep you feeling full for longer on fewer calories. A fiber-rich diet seems to help people eat less and in turn, shed pounds.
Pumpkins May Help Skin
The same free-radical-neutralizing powers of the carotenoids in pumpkin that may help keep cancer cells at bay can also help keep the skin wrinkle-free, Health magazine has reported.
Pumpkin Seeds Help Your Heart
Nuts and seeds, including those from pumpkins, are naturally rich in certain plant-based chemicals called phytosterols that have been shown in studies to reduce LDL or what is known as “bad” cholesterol.
As long as we are on the topic of pumpkins, rumor has it that there is a delicious shampoo/shower gel/bubble bath product out called Homemade Pumpkin Pie, by Philosophy. It is sure to get you into the fall spirit with a rich, foaming lather that they say smells fresh from the oven. Mmm.
Lastly, a little DIY home treatment we read about that you may want to try out:
Pumpkin and Papaya Mask:
Combine:
1 fresh papaya
1/4 cup of pureed pumpkin
1/4 cup oatmeal
1 tsp of honey
Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix to a thick, creamy consistency. Apply to face and throat, avoiding eye area, leaving it on for up to 10 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and follow with your favorite moisturizer.
