Why you should eat real pumpkin this fall
10/01/2015 / By Vicki Batts
While pumpkin-flavored things are delicious, and the spices used to make something “pumpkin-flavored” can be pretty good for you – it wouldn’t hurt to eat the real thing, too. The best part about pumpkins in the fall is that you can use the whole fruit. Yes, pumpkin is a fruit! And it’s got a wide array of health benefits when you have more than just nutmeg and cinnamon.
Pumpkin flesh is rich in vitamins A, B, C and E – all of which are known for their ability to help prevent disease and degeneration throughout the body. It’s also low in calories and rich in fiber. It’s a creamy addition to oatmeal with some cinnamon, a great way to thicken up your smoothie, and so much more.
Pumpkin seeds, on the other hand, are rich in monounsaturated fats, iron, zinc and protein. They can be roasted in the oven and mixed with dried fruit for a great DIY trail mix, served up on a salad or just enjoyed alone as a snack.
You might just say, pumpkin is one of fall’s perfect superfoods.
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Tagged Under: functional food, healthy eating, healthy food, nutrition, pumpkin
