Pumpkin is a versatile, nutritious, and delectable vegetable that is the very essence and pivot of festivals like Thanksgiving and Halloween. Other than its legacy of being associated with lots of festivals in the Western world, it is also quite nutritional and tasty on its own. Most people assume that pumpkins are vegetables, which is not true.
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Pumpkin is scientifically classified as a type of fruit because it has more characteristics of a fruit than a vegetable. Pumpkin is so much more than its conventional image of being an item of embellishment. Also, the consumption of pumpkins during summer is great for the body as they are rich in a lot of essential vitamins and antioxidants and have really low calories.
* Vitamin A
Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin A. As per a study published in the journal Springer Nature in 2023, pumpkin is rich in various carotenoids in the form of vitamin A. This plays a very important role in the prevention of various skin-related disorders, strengthening eyesight, and also preventing cancer. Any diet that is the resource of carotenoids is beneficial in the long run for also fighting against free radicals in the body.
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* Antioxidants
The presence of so many antioxidants in pumpkins helps improve the body's metabolic process. The antioxidants can also help fight harmful bacteria that might cause problems related to cardiovascular and digestive health. Excess of free radicals in the body can also lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is one of the major reasons for chronic illnesses related to cancer as well as heart disorders. Pumpkins, being a great source of antioxidants, are an opportune addition for people who are trying to make their food health-friendly and want to keep everything on a budget.
* Low Calories
As per the data published by the US Department of Agriculture, 100 grams of pumpkin is only 26 calories. It also has a significant proportion of different minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and many more. This fruit is also very low in terms of sugar concentration, although it may vary from place to place and how it is cultivated. Being low in calories, pumpkin is a great addition to one's diet as not only is it a powerhouse of antioxidants, but it is also not going to contribute to weight gain.
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* Great For Skin
During summer, due to perpetual dehydration and direct contact with harsh rays of sun, the quality of skin and hair deteriorates. In this case, eating food that is enriched with antioxidants is a great way to replenish the quality of skin and make it look more healthy. Pumpkin is a great source of beta-carotene and different types of vitamins. This makes it a natural sun-blocking agent. It can also help in slowing down the process of cell damage due to exposure to UV rays. The presence of vitamin A and vitamin C can help in the production of collagen, which can make the skin extremely plump and strong.
Different Types of Dishes To Make With Pumpkins
Now that you already know about the spectacular and evident benefits of consuming pumpkins, you might be wondering how to introduce them into your day-to-day life. Avoid indulging in any kind of deliberation, as here are some great and easy-to-make pumpkin dishes that you can introduce in your everyday meals.
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* Pumpkin Muffins
A pumpkin muffin is a great start to the day as it is a confluence of the natural sweetness of pumpkin along with the creaminess of feta cheese. This is a delectable and opulent dessert that is also very healthy. It can be consumed for lunch and breakfast as well as for an evening cup of tea. One has to simply take some mashed pumpkin and mix it with feta cheese. In this mixture, add some cocoa powder, eggs, flour, and a little bit of baking soda. Add some honey for sweetness and make these mouth-watering muffins.
* Pumpkin And Potato Vegetable Mixture
A pumpkin and potato vegetable mixture is easy, healthy, and a very direct recipe that doesn't require the use of different types of ingredients. One simply has to take some chopped pieces of pumpkins and mix them with whatever other vegetables are available at home. It could be carrots, bell peppers, potatoes, cauliflowers, broccoli, or anything else. Just stir-fry these vegetables in a little bit of olive oil along with some subtle spices and a thick tomato paste.