Pumpkin Seeds

"It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown!"

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That's right everyone, pumpkin season is in full swing! Personally, I adore all the pumpkin treat this time of year. I'll eat anything from muffins, coffee, ice cream, to bagels, but I'm left wondering how beneficial is pumpkin for my body. So I have done a little research and I'm here to share with you what I've learned about our beloved pumpkin. 

Pumpkin seeds contain:

• carbohydrates
• amino acids
• unsaturated fatty acids 
• Vitamins B, C, D, E, K
• calcium

 What exactly does this mean? Carbohydrates, amino acids, and unsaturated fatty acids make up a good percentage of our daily diets. These are used throughout the body for different and varying functions. If you are more interested in the particularities I suggest checking out {nutrition.gov} for more information. What about the vitamins?

B- B12 helps our bodies make DNA, and keeps nerve and blood cells healthy. This vitamin is known for preventing anemia. B6 is an enzyme involved in metabolism, brain development during pregnancy, and immune function.

C- Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in the body fighting free radicals, and it also creates collagen in our bodies. But vitamin C is famous for improving the absorption of iron and helping our immune systems. Vitamin C has been found to help in cancer prevention treatment, cardiovascular disease, and fighting the common cold.

D- Vitamin D is used to keep our bones strong and help muscles move. Most people receive enough vitamin D directly from the sun in as little as 15 minutes.

E- Vitamin E, like C, acts an antioxidant helping our bodies to fight free radicals. This vitamin also boosts our immune systems and widens blood vessels and keeps them from clotting within the body.

K- Vitamin K helps the body make proteins for healthy bone and tissues. This vitamin also prevents blood clotting.

The Huffington Post recently did a great article on benefits of pumpkin, and here are a few of them.

1. Sharp eye sight
2. Weight loss aid
3. Reduce cancer risk
4. Protect skin
5. Boost mood 

Make sure to head over to their site if you want to know more!

Huffington Post

     

Wow! So many wonderful things come from pumpkins. I'm excited to incorporate more pumpkin into my favorite fall recipes, just remember to watch the sugar content on those store bought treats!

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