Fall into Pumpkin All Year Long

Fall is in the air, and you know what that means: time to bring out the pumpkin flavored drinks and desserts!

There's really nothing better on a cool fall day than a pumpkin spice latte, but did you know that pumpkin is a superfood that really should be enjoyed all year long? It’s true!  Pumpkin offers a wide range of health benefits due to their rich nutritional content. Here is a list of reasons why you should include pumpkin in your diet regularly:

  1. Rich in Nutrients: Pumpkins are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision, skin, and immune function. They also contain vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
  1. High in Antioxidants: Pumpkins are rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, support skin health, and protect against age-related eye disorders.
  1. Boosts Immunity: Thanks to the high levels of vitamins A and C, pumpkins can help strengthen the immune system and enhance your body’s ability to fight off infections.
  1. Supports Heart Health: The potassium, fiber, and antioxidants in pumpkin can contribute to a healthy heart by regulating blood pressure, reducing bad cholesterol, and improving overall cardiovascular function.
  1. Promotes Digestive Health: Pumpkin is high in fiber, which aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports gut health.
  1. Good for Weight Management: Low in calories but high in nutrients, pumpkin can be a filling addition to your diet without contributing to weight gain, making it ideal for weight management.
  1. Improves Skin Health: The high beta-carotene content helps protect the skin from sun damage, while vitamin C supports collagen production, keeping the skin firm and healthy.
  1. Supports Eye Health: The carotenoids in pumpkin, especially lutein and zeaxanthin, protect the eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration, both age-related conditions.
  1. May Improve Mood: Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can help improve mood and sleep.

Pumpkin is not only nutritious but also versatile, making it a great ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Add a scoop to your morning smoothie or be brave and mix it into your pancake or waffle batter for a big boost to your health all year long!

And if eating pumpkin year-round doesn’t quite sit well with you, don’t be shy about eating pumpkin seeds in the off-season. Pumpkin seeds (aka pepitas) are also rich in nutrients, and provide a variety of benefits, including magnesium for heart heath, tryptophan for better sleep, and high fiber for a healthy gut! Sprinkle till your heart’s content on your salad or mix them into your favorite trail mix. Your body will thank you!