One of fall’s brightest crops can also be a bright spot in your diet. Dr. Helen Lee of Chicagohealers.com outlines the health benefits of nutrient-rich pumpkins, giving you six great reasons to indulge in pumpkin pie, seeds, soup or other pumpkin dishes. For an extra eco and healthy twist, choose organic pumpkins canned or whole.
1. Pumpkins provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and E, immune-boosting zinc, potassium and magnesium, all of which help support organs including your kidneys, bladder and prostate.
2. They also boast beta and alpha carotenoids, antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage.
3. Pumpkins are high in protein, especially the seeds–one ounce contains about seven grams of protein.
4. The orange food helps support healthy eyes thanks to lutein.
5. You’ll also get a helping of essential fatty acid oils.
6. Pumpkins help the body get rid of unwelcome digestive inhabitants like parasites.
Photo by naneki on Stock.xchng.com
Julie Knapp
Julie Knapp is a New York City-based freelance writer. Her greenest habit is walking nearly everywhere she goes and she aspires to eat a diet of organic and locally grown food. From searching for organic pet toys to trying out the latest natural beauty products, Julie is always looking for the next great green thing. Aside from green living, Julie writes about beauty, health, fitness, nutrition and parenting. She also writes for Greenzer.com, TapIt.com, Examiner.com, Parents magazine and Organic Beauty magazine. Plus she's the founder and editor of her blog, JivaFit.com.
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