Pumpkin: This hard squash is an excellent source of zinc, Vitamin A, potassium, and Vitamin E. Along with other nutritional goodies, these help make pumpkins a super health food. The vegetable is a mild anti-inflammatory and has a low glycemic load. The Vitamin A (or carotenoids converted to Vitamin A) is higher in pumpkin than any other vegetable. These nurture vision health, immune function, cancer prevention, and tissue repair. Good for heart and blood health, potassium can also reduce muscle cramping in athletes (which is why endurance athletes often munch on bananas). A cup of pumpkin as 564 mg of potassium, making it an even better choice than that banana (which has just over 400 mg). Pumpkin seeds are one of the richest sources of zinc, plus, they’re delicious. Zinc is crucial to developing the immune system and keeping cells healthy. Roast your own or find some organic already roasted seeds (sometimes called “pepitas”) in your local health food store. Natural News reports that pumpkin seed oil is an excellent source of essential fats, phytosterols, and vitamins E and K. It is reported to nurture healthy brain function and skin condition. It may even work to lower cholesterol and improve metabolism.
Posted on: Fri, 06 Sep 2013 14:55:51 +0000
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