1. Great Source Of Fibre
Pumpkins are an excellent fibre source, with around 3 grams in 1 cup (225 grams). Including more fibre in your diet can help you to feel fuller for longer, which can help to stop you from snacking between meals.
Some of the other known benefits of more fibre in your diet include:
- Assisting with digestion;
- Lowering cholesterol and blood pressure;
- Lowering your risks associated with heart disease;
- Improving gut health;
- Combating constipation; and
- Strengthen your immune system.
You can get more pumpkin in your diet with some homemade pumpkin puree or a classic soup.
2. It Might Help with Concentration and Memory
Pumpkin contains lutein which is known for playing an important role when it comes to promoting eye health. Lutein is also responsible for improving cognitive function, which includes:
- Memory;
- Focus;
- Concentration; and
- Learning.
A study recorded in the journal called Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics found that lutein along with another carotenoid known as zeaxanthin might be responsible for improving visual-processing speed.
3. A Natural Immunity Booster
Pumpkin is also an exceptional source of zinc, vitamins A and C, and all the antioxidants which are responsible for strengthening and improving your immune system.
Pumpkin is also rich in beta-carotene – a type of antioxidant plant-pigment – which is why pumpkin is such a bright and vibrant orange colour.
4. It Might Help with Eye Health
Due to the carotenoids and beta-carotene present in pumpkins, this might assist with reducing risks linked to chronic types of eye diseases, which includes cataracts and age-related eye degeneration.
To up your intake of Vitamin A, it is easy to add 1 cup of mashed, cooked pumpkin into your oatmeal or a daily smoothie. Just 1 serving provides over 200% of your RDA (recommended daily allowance), which is an important nutrient when it comes to eye health.
5. Pumpkin Contains Heart-Healthy Nutrients
The seeds of a pumpkin are an excellent source of plant-derived compounds known as phytoestrogens (A phytoestrogen is a plant-derived xenoestrogen not generated within the endocrine system, but consumed by eating phytoestrogenic plants).
When you include these with a healthy lifestyle and diet, it has been proven to promote heart health and keep cholesterol under control.
