The Great Pumpkin and the Benefits It Brings
By Brandi Swieter
“It’s the great pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” Most people have probably heard of this saying, stemming from the television special that airs each year around Halloween. To most it’s just the title of a TV show, but the words actually have some meaning to them. Pumpkin is in fact great, particularly thanks to the many health benefits it brings to those who consume it.
Helping the Heart
Fiber found within certain foods works to protect the heart. While apples are often considered one of the best sources, pumpkin contains more than the popular fruit. People who consume more fiber on a regular basis are less likely to develop heart disease and suffer from heart problems. Cook some pumpkin up and get the fiber from it that can help the heart.
Aiding the Eyes
Vision tends to suffer as people age, making it important for everyone to consume as many Vitamin-A foods as possible. While carrots were once considered the main source of Vitamin A, as well as beta-carotene that produces the vitamin, it has since been found that pumpkin is a more valuable source. Consume some regularly and it will aid the eyes and improve vision, particularly when it comes to seeing in dim lighting.
Soothing the Skin
People don’t always have to consume pumpkin to get use out of it. While it is possible to get younger-looking skin by eating pumpkin because of the beta-carotene within it, it’s even easier to soothe skin with pumpkin pulp. Mix some with milk, organic honey, and one egg and the result is a natural face mask that helps to exfoliate. Leave it on for just 20 minutes and then rinse with warm water to see the effects.
Curing Cancer
While it may not actually cure cancer if you already have it, beta-carotene found in pumpkin can help to lower the risk of cancer developing. It works particularly well for fighting off lung and prostate cancer, but large quantities need to get consumed for it to work. Continue eating carrots and other vegetables during other seasons, but up your pumpkin intake during the fall months when it’s readily available.
The great pumpkin is indeed great, offering many health benefits to those who consume it. Take the time this fall to create some healthy pumpkin recipes and reap the benefits it brings. A slice of pumpkin pie won’t hurt, but don’t make it the only pumpkin-related item eaten this season.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avon, Ind.