Pumpkins return in large numbers every autumn. Thanks to the extremely positive effect on our health, this vegetable deserves a favored position in our nutrition. Autumn time is pumpkin time - as a decoration or on our plate, in this season the pumpkin is a vegetable that cannot be forgotten. In particular, for Halloween the creative lanterns made with pumpkins contribute to creating the right atmosphere, but also as a food, the pumpkin acquires more and more importance with good reason.
Pumpkin is a low-calorie vegetable, providing only 26 calories per 100 grams because it is made up largely of water. In addition to water, the pumpkin pulp, contains many important vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, which strengthen our body. In addition, the pumpkin also contains dietary fibers that support our digestion and are valuable for the diet.
Pumpkins contain a large amount of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that counteracts free radicals and protects our cells. This helps to neutralize potential cancer cells and contributes to the regeneration of damaged skin cells. In the body, beta-carotene, in a subsequent step, is transformed into vitamin A, essential to strengthen our visual capacity.
Not only the pumpkin pulp but also the seeds are healthy. They are often used as an appetizing salad dressing or as a crispy snack. Pumpkin seeds, however, have more calories than the pulp, but the positive characteristics are the many unsaturated fats they contain. Fat contains a large number of precious minerals and vitamin E, which is especially good for our skin. The secondary plant substances contained in the seeds also help to lower cholesterol, for the benefit of our heart.
