Pumpkins are an amazing member of the squash family that are deeply linked to North American fall traditions. From Jack o Lanterns to the ever popular Pumpkin Pie, pumpkins have a more to offer us than a seasonal treat or festive decoration though.
Each 100 grams of pumpkin is packed with 246% of daily recommended Vitamin A. This vitamin is a powerful anti oxidant with a plethora of benefits from maintaining the integrity of the skin, to healthy eyesight and some research also suggests that this vitamin protects against lung and oral cancers. Pumpkin is also a great source of B complex vitamins such as foliates, niacin, B-6, thiamin and pantothenic acid. This group of vitamins has many benefits but overall is beneficial for energy levels. Pumpkin provides these and many other nutritional benefits and contains no saturated fats cholesterol a great source of dietary fiber and all for only 26 calories.
Pumpkin seeds are also packed with nutritional benefits like high levels of dietary fiber and mono unsaturated fatty acids with are beneficial to heart health. Per 100 grams they also provide 30 grams of protein and 110% of recommended daily intake of iron 17% of selenium and 71% of zinc.
In addition to all the above nutritional benefits pumpkin has and still is used in many beauty products as an exfolient (pumpkin acids), beauty creams (high levels of vitamin A and zinc) which can balance oil levels in the skin.
If you have the chance to enjoy some pumpkin this year indulge with the knowledge that you are enjoying a great seasonal delight packed full of benefits.
Warmest regards,
KurSpa Team
