Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Pumpkin Nutrition

Did you know that pumpkins are really nutritious? You may be surprised to learn that these orange harbingers of fall are plumb full of beta-carotene, just like other red, orange, and yellow fruits and vegetables. Pumpkins are also a great source of calcium, vitamin C, and fiber. The seeds and the oil made from them are good sources of zinc and the unsaturated fatty acids that we need to maintain our health.

Calorie for calorie, pumpkins pack in a lot of nutrition. The fiber in this seasonal food will also temper your appetite so you do not overeat. Fiber is also good for the health of your bowels. Potassium, another important nutrient, is abundant in pumpkins.

Pumpkin is high in iron, which is important because it helps your red blood cells carry oxygen. The zinc you get from pumpkins helps protect you from osteoporosis of the hip and spine. Zinc is also good for the reproductive system and maintaining fertility.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are important compounds found in pumpkin that help neutralize the free radicals that can damage the lenses in your eyes. This can help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts as you get older. Isn’t it amazing that this simple vegetable can protect your eyes, your bones, and your reproductive system? It is also good for your skin. How many vegetables can do all this and still taste great in both sweet and savory dishes?

Want more ways to add this food to your menu? Maybe you are looking for a recipe for pumpkin soup. This easy meal can be made with fresh or canned pumpkin. Both versions are healthy and provide many of the nutrients your body needs. Soup can be made so it is low in calories, or you can add cream and other luscious ingredients to make it truly elegant. Who knew this rustic vegetable could offer so much?

Add pumpkin to your diet and see if you do not feel a difference. It is really a shame that this amazing food is under appreciated and overlooked in this country. Pumpkins should shine all year round, not just at Halloween and during the holidays as a simple dessert. It should be in a place of honor in the culinary world.

One of pumpkin’s best attributes is its versatility. It lends itself to both sweet and savory dishes with ease. You can add pumpkin to your meals several times per month using various dishes and you will never get tired of it. This vegetable deserves a higher placing at our table than to be used as a bowl. Try some pumpkin soup, pumpkin pancakes, or pumpkin bread.

Once you have added more pumpkin to your diet, you will wonder what you did without this delicious vegetable. You will notice that you begin to feel and look better because you are providing your body with important nutrients that it needs. Pumpkin provides you with stronger bones, helps maintain your figure and keeps your insides working properly. Not bad for a holiday decoration.

Pumpkin soup is an amazing dish that brings the taste of autumn into your home. This is a terrific soup to serve on holidays or any special event. It is rich, creamy and delicious. Serve it as an appetizer or as a full meal. Garnish it with a spoon of crme fraiche or whipped cream.