|
Did you know that Native Americans used the humble pumpkin as food especially since it helped to cure kidney related problems? Beta-carotene, which is plentiful in pumpkin, makes it a super food! Read on to find out more about this wonder fruit. Researchers claim that pumpkin is a super food. Right from its flesh to its seeds! It is rich in carotenoids. Apart from other properties, carotenoids keep your immune system healthy and strong. You will understand how great this vegetable is when you know that of the 600 known carotenoids, 50 or more are there in pumpkin. Breast milk contains only 34 carotenoids and it is a complete food for a baby! It can’t get better than this, can it? Cucurbitin is a substance that is found only in the seed of pumpkin. This is known to be useful to expel worms. The oil extracted from pumpkin seeds is considered effective against hair loss, though this is still being researched. (Source: Hair loss supplements) Pumpkin seeds are also considered a herbal remedy for enlarged prostate glands. Researchers have also found that the seeds are a natural diuretic as they contain a 50% concentration of fatty oil. It helps to relieve extra urine and increase urine flow. The seeds are extremely high in fiber and low in calories. It is a popular snack in many countries and they claim that it helps in improving vision and prevents impotence. With a lot of research conducted on the use of pumpkin, naturopaths now use it to cure several types of cancers, especially skin cancer. Carotenoids are known to protect the skin and eyes from the ill effects of ultra violet rays of the sun. Beta-carotene is a potent antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory agent. This means that it helps to prevent build up of cholesterol on the arterial walls, thereby reducing chances of strokes. Alpha-carotene, also found in pumpkins is known to slow the aging process and prevents cataract formation in the eyes. There are no known ill effects of pumpkin, except perhaps that too much of the seeds may cause an upset tummy! What do you think of this super food? Do you know of any other benefits that you have come across with the use of this vegetable? Share your pumpkin recipes with us, right here.
| .gif)
