Published By: K.D Cameron
See all articles

Don’t throw out the pumpkin flesh and seeds when turning it into a spectacular Halloween lantern. See why.

The bright colours of pumpkins are one of the certain signs that autumn has set in. Beautiful yellow-orange hues that are a pleasure to the eye and keep us warm when the sun starts shining weaker. Besides, their forms are so suitable for decoration. And it’s probably not a coincidence that precisely pumpkins are used to make Halloween lanterns. But mostly we need to know that the pumpkin is one of the fruits richest in beneficial nutrients. It’s abundant in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which are present in the flesh as well as in the seeds.

The pumpkin is a real natural treasure. It’s a powerful source of alpha-carotene. This is a carotenoid which transforms into retinol – a form of vitamin A which is of key importance for good vision. Furthermore, retinol can boost the immune defense of our body. The alpha-carotene abundant in the pumpkin slows down the ageing process of the skin, since it supports the renewal of the skin cells and increases the production of collagen. In other words, if we get additional alpha-carotene by consuming more fruits and vegetables containing it, we will certainly give our skin the chance to look younger, tighter and more glowing. And that’s not all: the pumpkin contains one more carotenoid which is important for our good appearance and that’s the beta-carotene – another substance on which ours skin’s health depends.

You’ve already read so much about the usefulness of pumpkins. But we haven’t mentioned vitamins C and E yet, in which pumpkins are extremely rich. You certainly know that vitamin C has a strengthening effect on our immune system. But it also promotes the health of our cardio-vascular system. As for vitamin E, it can protect our skin against the negative effect of the sun. And when we add the above-mentioned carotenoids, it turns out that pumpkins are really beneficial to our skin.

We continue with the fibres. Just half a cup of pumpkin provides us with 5 grammes of them. Fibres promote good digestion and stomach health. Besides, they are faithful friends to everybody who wants to lose weight. Fibres are beneficial to our cardio-vascular health and also to the maintenance of cholesterol in healthy limits.

In addition to all of this you should know that pumpkins are rich in potassium, magnesium and vitamin B5.

By any means don’t throw out the seeds of the pumpkin. Raw pumpkin seeds provide some essential nutrients to our body. They are a natural source of vitamin E, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and essential fatty acids.

You can easily add grated pumpkin to the dishes you bake at home. And don’t think that you can make use of this excellent fruit only in autumn. Make a purée from raw pumpkin, freeze it and you can use it throughout the year.

As for pumpkin seeds, they are very tasty as a light snack anytime during the day. You can also sprinkle them on your favourite salads. You must certainly be convinced now that you shouldn’t throw out the flesh and seeds of pumpkins on the eve of Halloween after you’ve turned them into wonderful shining lanterns.

 

PINTEREST

LEAVE A COMMENT :










Comments sort : Newest / Oldest / Most Upvoted


This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.  


Allow all     Read More...