Pumpkin is a super food with umpteen health benefits. Here is everything you need to know about this seasonal delicacy.
Here in Britain; Pumpkins are symbolic of autumn and are a popular part of Halloween festivities in the form of crafts and art. Having said that; the British staple diet lacks pumpkin-based recipes, which means Brits are missing out on the beneficial properties of this super food.
Apart from its use as a decorative item, the good thing about pumpkin is that it is entirely edible - from skin to flesh, all the way down to the seeds and their oil. In even better news, pumpkin is massively beneficial when it comes to lowering cholesterol. Precisely why, you need to add as much of this seasonal delicacy in your diet as possible.
How Pumpkins help lower Cholesterol?
All parts of the Pumpkin are rich in a variety of nutrients. Read on as we put together a carefully curated list of everything you need to know about pumpkins, it various parts and their nutritional value, to make the most of this autumn super food.
Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Seed Oil:
Pumpkin seeds are packed to the brim with antioxidants, magnesium, zinc and fatty acids - all of which contribute to a healthy heart. Pumpkin seed oil also comes loaded with vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, C, D, E, and K, magnesium, iron and calcium, it is also rich in and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Phew, right!
Studies have also shown that pumpkin seed oil increases HDL (good cholesterol). Using it for 12 weeks (in supplement form) can increase 'good cholesterol' by 16%. Pumpkin seeds also contain a compound known as phytosterol, which stops your body from absorbing LDL (bad cholesterol).
Pumpkin Flesh:
Pumpkin flesh is packed with plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. These antioxidants in pumpkin flesh can prevent the bad cholesterol (LDL) from oxidising. This oxidation can enable LDL cholesterol to clog up your arteries, which can lead to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of heart diseases. Consuming pumpkin flesh therefore can help limit your cholesterol levels. Pumpkins also contain other nutrients like potassium; which reduce the risk of heart diseases and blood pressure.
Pumpkin flesh is a rather versatile food ingredient; it can be used as a base for both savoury dishes like casseroles and sweet dishes like cakes. So make the most of this part of the Pumpkin and include as much of it as you can in your diet.
Pumpkin recipes:
Breakfast:
Pumpkin Pancakes
Lunch:
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Dinner:
Pumpkin Risotto
