Harnessing the power of pumpkin
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By Simone Du Toit. Traditionally carved out and left on doorsteps to ward off evil spirits, pumpkins have a range of health benefits that are still being unveiled.
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By Simone Du Toit. With Halloween fast approaching and lollies and chocolates the order of the day, many of us forget the power of the humble pumpkin.
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and are high in zinc, an essential mineral involved in a variety of body processes. These include immunity, skin health and antioxidant protection, and zinc has also been associated with healthy digestive function.
Vitamin A is important for the health of the cells lining the digestive tract and betacarotene, found in high amounts in plant food, is converted to vitamin A in the body as required. It has a characteristic orange colour and is found in the highest amounts in carrots, sweet potatoes, rock melon, apricots and pumpkin.
A small study published this month in Climacteric found preliminary evidence suggesting pumpkin seed oil may have some benefit in postmenopausal women. Women who received pumpkin seed oil showed a significant increase in HDL cholesterol (or good cholesterol) concentrations, a decrease in diastolic blood pressure and a significant improvement in menopausal symptom scores. It is important to note that the study had a small sample size of just 35 women and benefits will have to be confirmed in future studies.
So, once the jack-o-lantern has been hollowed out, why not use the contents to cook up one of these delicious and nutritious pumpkin recipes for the whole family to enjoy:
- Lentil-stuffed pumpkin
- Pumpkin and mushroom risotto
- Roast pumpkin and feta pizza
- Chicken and pumpkin soup with quinoa
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