It is that time of year again when the leaves begin to turn, there is a crisp breeze in the air and everyone is wearing boots and scarves. Maybe that is just wishful thinking here in Southern California, but like all good fall lovers we still have one thing that makes us love the change of seasons. Pumpkins!
Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bars and pumpkin spice lattes. There is just something about inserting pumpkin into everything that makes us think fall. For everyone who loves pumpkin, this next part is going to be exciting.
Guess what? Pumpkins are good for you. Well not necessarily in the previously mentioned forms, but studies do show that pumpkin in your diet is actually a good thing.
Following are six reasons to include pumpkin in your diet:
- Weight loss: because pumpkin is high in fiber, it causes you to feel fuller for longer due to slowed digestion.
- Sharper vision: pumpkins are filled with beta-carotene that causes their vibrant orange color. Beta-Carotene converts to vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy eyes.
- Strengthens immunity: just as vitamin A is great for your eyes, it also helps build up your immunity. In addition to this, pumpkin is also a complete source of vitamin C, which helps fight off colds and hastens recovery.
- Healthy, clean skin: create a facial mask by simply mixing pumpkin puree, an egg, honey and milk. Simply apply it for 20 minutes and then wash it away.
- May decrease cancer risk: according to a CNN report, researchers have discovered that eating a diet high in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of contracting several types of cancers, including prostate and lung.
- May help treat diabetes: while not confirmed yet, studies suggest that pumpkin has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance and increase the amount of insulin that the body produces. Until we know for sure, it definitely can’t hurt to eat more pumpkin!
So go ahead and eat more pumpkin! Embrace fall in all its glory and get creative with your pumpkin recipes. Why not? It’s good for you! Go out and Live It!